Isak Hien hobbles off the field after injuring himself during the game against Japan. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Sweden defender Isak Hien will play no further part in the FIFA World Cup after sustaining a hamstring injury during his side’s 1-1 draw with Japan on Thursday, the Swedish Football Association (SvFF) announced.

Sweden advanced to the round of 32 as one of the eight best third-placed teams and will face France, but the 27-year-old defender has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament.

“Isak has sustained an injury to his left hamstring that will prevent him from participating further in the World Cup,” Sweden team doctor Jonas Werner said in a statement released by the SvFF on Friday.

“He will return to his club, and the injury means he will be sidelined for some time.”

Head coach Graham Potter expressed his disappointment and pledged the team’s support for Hien during his recovery.

“Having to end the World Cup in this way through injury is very sad, and we will support him in the best way possible,” Potter said.

“It’s tough for him, but I’m sure he’ll come back stronger.”

Published on Jun 27, 2026