Alexander Isak stars as ruthless Sweden end Northern Ireland’s unbeaten run

Alexander Isak brought his sparkling Premier League form to the international stage as a young, inexperienced Northern Ireland were soundly beaten 5-1 in their friendly in Sweden.

Newcastle star Isak made one and scored one as the visitors’ five-match unbeaten run was ruthlessly brought to an end.

Michael O’Neill’s side had their chances under the roof at Stockholm’s Strawberry Arena, but they were wasteful until Isaac Price scored a late consolation, while the Swedes were clinical.

Defeat in Stockholm. #GAWA pic.twitter.com/aLvT5hiQ0o

— Northern Ireland (@NorthernIreland) March 25, 2025

Northern Ireland came into the match on the back of an encouraging 1-1 draw with Switzerland, but they had lost Trai Hume and Ethan Galbraith from that game with Portsmouth full-back Terry Devlin and Leyton Orient’s on-loan Tottenham forward Jamie Donley handed full debuts.

Sweden, by contrast, were smarting from Saturday’s 1-0 defeat in Luxembourg, and they clearly meant business by going ahead after only seven minutes.

Isak, with 23 goals for his club this season, was the creator, expertly bringing down a high ball in the area and turning away from his markers.

The Magpies’ Carabao Cup hero nine days ago jinked his way across the box before rolling the ball out to Emil Holm, who was free at the far post to slot beyond Pierce Charles from six yards out.

Emil Holm sätter elegant dit 1-0!