Gabriel Gudmundsson: A Scapegoat Backed by Graham Potter

The backward fit made up for it

GENEVA. Gabriel Gudmundsson had only been on the field for a few minutes.

Then he was responsible for a crazy backward pass, Switzerland received a penalty and Sweden eventually lost 1–4.

– Of course it’s tough and hard, he says to Sportbladet.

Gabriel Gudmundsson was substituted for Emil Holm early in the second half.

But he had a rough night in Geneva. With one on the tok for a weak pass to Viktor Johansson, Breel Embolo was ahead and it was a controversial penalty.

Granit Xhaka put the ball into the net, Switzerland took the lead 2–1 and then won 4–1.

– Obviously sad to have to put the team in that situation. Mistakes do happen. The punishment can be discussed, but that’s what happens, he tells Sportbladet.

He continues:

– Of course it’s tough and hard and I had hoped for a few more minutes, of course.

How is playing on for you after that?

– Desperate to change that result and I’m probably not succeeding. The numbers were a bit too big towards the end, he says.

Supported by Potter

Teammates and national team captain Graham Potter supported Gudmundsson after the mistake.

– It is part of football. Mistakes happen and we win and lose as a team. He’s had a tough week dealing with an injury. It has not been easy but he is an honest player. He wants the team to play well. It’s part of life and we move on and support, says Potter.

“Should have no shit!”

Several of the players also take Gudmundsson in defense. Above all, Viktor Johansson.

– He shouldn’t have any shit at all. Absolutely not! Either I stand longer and remove it or I think the referee should do differently, says Viktor Johansson.

He continues:

– No, damn it! “Gabbe” should have nothing. Then I’ll take it on.