FIFA WC: 'No disgrace in losing to France', says coach Potter after Sweden's exit
New Jersey, July 1
Head coach Graham Potter reflected on Sweden's defeat against world No. 2 France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockouts and said that he feels proud of his team's campaign, admitting there is no disgrace in losing to a team like France.
Sweden came into the game with a 4-4-2 formation in the round of 32 against France and started confidently with aggressive defensive play, several ball wins and some promising attacks. But Mbappe struck twice as Les Bleus continued their perfect start, sweeping aside Sweden to book their place in the Round of 16.
"I have no complaints to the players whatsoever," Potter said in the post-match press conference. "I don't think it's a disgrace to lose to France. They were the better team and they've got some high-level players. For us, it's about using this as a foundation to go forward and to be proud of what we've done so far."
Potter explained his decision to play a more attacking formation. "I thought it gives us a bit more of a chance to try to put some pressure on. We had some good transition moments early in the game, but we didn't make enough of them," he said. "In the end, the quality of the opponent is still the quality of the opponent. That's why I have to say congratulations to France; they deserved to win."
Potter spoke highly of France striker Mbappe, who took his World Cup tally to 18 goals, two clear of Miroslav Klose and only one behind Lionel Messi. "He is an absolute top, top player. His goal was a fine example of the speed and the way he can get the shot off quick. It's an incredibly high level," said Potter.
Potter added that his team had grown a lot despite its elimination.
"We are a young developing team with hopefully a lot of good things ahead of us," he said. "We have double figures making debuts in the World Cup. That is some difference from the French team. We'll get better for that, that's for sure. You win, you lose, you grow as a team and as an individual."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally a coach who takes responsibility and doesn't blame luck or referees! Potter's humility is refreshing. But I do wonder why he chose such an attacking formation against France - sometimes you need to be defensive against top teams. Still, Sweden has a bright future with youngsters. Hope India can learn from this approach!
Potter is right - no disgrace at all. France has world-class players like Mbappe who can win matches single-handedly. Feel bad for Sweden though, they had a spirited campaign. Reminds me of how we Indians feel when our cricket team loses to Australia - you respect the opponent but still feel gutted. ✊
As an Indian football fan, I admire Potter's sportsmanship. But let's be honest - Sweden could have done better in the first half. They pressed well but didn't capitalize on chances. Mbappe is just unstoppable though, 18 goals in World Cups is insane. Messi's record might actually be broken soon! 🇫🇷⚽
Love Potter's realistic take! He knows his team isn't at France's level yet but is building for the future. This is exactly what India needs in sports - patience and development, not just instant results. Sweden's young debutants will learn so much from this experience. Jai Ho Sweden! 🇸🇪
From a neutral perspective, Potter handled this well. But I feel he could have been more critical of the defensive lapses. Sweden's backline was caught napping for both goals. That said, Mbappe's second goal was pure class -
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