Sweden marked their return to the FIFA World Cup with an impressive 5-1 victory over Tunisia on Sunday. Midfielder Yasin Ayari scored twice and delivered a standout performance as the Swedes moved to the top of Group F.

With the Netherlands and Japan playing out a 2-2 draw earlier in the day, Sweden took full advantage of the opportunity and seized early control of the group with a commanding display at Estadio BBVA.

Ayari Gives Sweden the Perfect Start

Playing in their first World Cup since missing out on the 2022 tournament, Sweden started brightly and quickly took charge of the match. The breakthrough arrived in the seventh minute when Yasin Ayari struck a superb long-range effort to put Sweden ahead.

The goal carried added significance for Ayari, whose father was born in Tunisia. After scoring, he chose not to celebrate excessively and instead raised his hands as a sign of respect. Sweden continued to attack and caused constant problems for Tunisia's defence throughout the first half.

Isak Doubles the Lead

The Scandinavian side increased their advantage in the 30th minute through a well-executed counterattack. Viktor Gyökeres led a rapid break before finding Alexander Isak in space. The striker cut inside and fired a low shot beyond goalkeeper Mouhib Chamakh. The goal was Isak's 18th for Sweden and gave his team a comfortable 2-0 lead.

Tunisia Pull One Back Before Half-Time

Tunisia refused to give up and found a lifeline just before the break. In the 43rd minute, defender Omar Rekik rose highest inside the penalty area and headed the ball into the net. The goal reduced the deficit to 2-1 and gave Tunisia hope heading into the second half.

Sweden End Tunisia’s Comeback Hopes

Any momentum Tunisia gained before halftime quickly disappeared after the restart. Alexander Isak turned provider and won possession before setting up Viktor Gyökeres. The striker stayed composed and finished confidently in a one-on-one situation to restore Sweden’s two-goal advantage.

The goal marked Gyökeres’ 21st international strike and extended his impressive scoring form. Sweden continued to dominate possession and create chances as Tunisia struggled to contain the relentless pressure.

VAR Confirms Fourth Goal

Sweden effectively sealed the victory in the 84th minute. Mattias Svanberg found the back of the net, although the goal required a lengthy VAR review before officials confirmed it.

The decision stood, and Sweden moved 4-1 ahead.

Ayari Completes Brilliant Performance

There was still time for Ayari to add another goal to his tally. Deep into stoppage time, the midfielder unleashed another powerful strike from outside the box to complete his brace and round off an outstanding individual display.

His second goal capped a memorable night for both the player and his team.

Sweden Take Early Control of Group F

The convincing victory extended Sweden’s unbeaten run in World Cup opening matches to five games. The result also lifted them to the top of Group F after the earlier draw between Japan and the Netherlands.

Ranked 39th in the world, Sweden sent a strong message to their group rivals with an attacking and confident performance.

Pressure Mounts on Tunisia

For Tunisia, the defeat was a disappointing start to their seventh World Cup appearance. The Eagles of Carthage now face added pressure ahead of their next group match, knowing another setback could seriously damage their hopes of reaching the knockout stages for the first time in their history.

Sweden will next face the Netherlands in Houston, while Tunisia will remain in Monterrey to take on Japan in a crucial Group F encounter. The Swedes could not have asked for a better start, with Ayari’s brilliance and a dominant team performance putting them firmly in control of their World Cup campaign.