Harry Potter proved his magic skills by leading Sweden from the depths to the World Cup

Many were surprised in mid March when Graham Potter was named the permanent head coach of the Swedish national team. Remember, his two interim matches in November ended in a draw and a loss, sealing their position at the bottom of the four team group.

Handing him the role permanently, right before the World Cup playoff games that his temporary stint was meant to decide, seemed risky. Yet after two victories and a spot in the World Cup, it appears to have been a brilliant decision.

Viktor Gyokeres scored a hat trick in Valencia during the 3 1 victory against Ukraine in the semi final, providing an excellent beginning, but it would mean nothing if Sweden lost to Poland at home in the final.

As the saying goes, it could have swung either direction, yet a "hockey style goal" by Gyokeres in the 88th minute propelled Sweden to their 13th World Cup finals, following leads twice established by Anthony Elanga and Gustaf Lagerbielke for the Blagult.

What sparked this timely improvement in performance? Several players, including captain Victor Lindelof, noted before the Poland match how much improved the team atmosphere had become under the ex West Ham, Chelsea and Swansea manager.

Potter avoided claiming personal praise after the match, but he discussed the significance of fostering the proper environment.

"The players responded exceptionally well. We demonstrated our team potential against a strong Poland side. In football, most outcomes depend on financial resources. However, building the correct setting and collaborating effectively can achieve great results," he remarked.

Sweden earned qualification amid an extensive injury roster that grew during this international break. The English coach contemplated how his players had suffered both physically and emotionally, yet prevailed in this challenge, stating the team was wounded "in multiple respects."

"When outcomes turn negative, you witness how football transforms, how life shifts. You feel you have reached the lowest point. It is utter darkness.

"Not long ago, the team faced severe criticism. That comes with the territory. Now the fan support was immense. We were not flawless, but collectively we excelled."

The Swedes face a challenging Group F in the tournament starting with the seasoned Tunisia in Guadalajara on 14th June, then taking on the three time finalists Netherlands in Houston on 20th June, and finishing their group stage in Arlington versus a formidable Japan on 25th June.

For the moment though, attention remains on savoring the qualification secured by Gyokeres scrappy goal, which left Potter questioning its reality.

"I glanced at the goal and abruptly the entire bench charged onto the field, making me wonder, 'Am I truly here?' It felt like a detachment from reality. A moment I am thankful to have experienced," he confessed.

Potter has previously contributed to a remarkable chapter in Swedish football by elevating Ostersund from lower divisions to the Europa League. Returning to his adopted homeland, he anticipates guiding the country where his children were born to a prominent competition.

"And this is for the World Cup, I am thrilled for the players! It is tough to absorb. I feel immense gratitude."