Stoke City Goalkeeper Viktor Johansson Stars as Sweden's Starter in UEFA Nations League

• Johansson secures starting role for Sweden in doubleheader

• UEFA Nations League Group C: Sweden faces Slovakia and Azerbaijan

• Narcis Pelach wants Viktor Johansson to remain part of the Stoke City project for a long time.

Stoke City Goalkeeper Viktor Johansson Stars as Sweden's Starter in UEFA Nations League
Stoke City Goalkeeper Viktor Johansson Stars as Sweden's Starter in UEFA Nations League | JOE KLAMAR/GettyImages

Viktor Johansson’s impressive form this season continues to earn him recognition, as the 26-year-old Stoke City goalkeeper has once again been called up by the Swedish national team. Johansson has been named the starting goalkeeper for Sweden in their crucial UEFA Nations League Group C matches during this international window.

A Testament to Johansson’s Growth and Form

Johansson’s selection as Sweden’s first-choice goalkeeper highlights his incredible rise over the past few seasons. At 26, he is widely regarded as one of the standout goalkeepers in the EFL Championship. His remarkable reflexes, commanding positioning, and critical saves have made him a key figure for Stoke City under Narcís Pelach, and now for his national team.

Sweden’s lineup for their November 16 clash against Slovakia includes international stars like Victor Lindelöf, Alexander Isak, and Dejan Kulusevski. Johansson’s inclusion alongside these global talents further cements his status as one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the game.

His recent performances for Sweden have been equally noteworthy. In his last international appearance on October 14, Johansson kept a clean sheet in a dominant win over Estonia. While he wasn’t heavily tested in that game, his composure and readiness when called upon were key to maintaining Sweden’s defensive solidity.

READ MORE: Crucial Matches Ahead for Stoke City Players on International Duty

Upcoming Challenges in the UEFA Nations League

Sweden currently leads Group C with strong performances and will look to secure their position in the next round with two important matches:

  • November 16: Sweden vs. Slovakia
  • November 19: Sweden vs. Azerbaijan

With Sweden’s qualification to the next stage almost assured, Johansson’s role in these games will still be crucial in solidifying the team’s dominance and maintaining their defensive strength.

For Johansson, this international break is another opportunity to showcase why he is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the EFL Championship and to further build his reputation on the world stage.