The Swedish national team has checked into their World Cup base in Frisco, on the outskirts of Dallas, and they have brought more than just their football kits. Board games, video games, and a relaxed team atmosphere are all part of the plan as Sweden prepares for their World Cup campaign.
“We have a lot of fun together,” midfielder Jesper Karlstrom told reporters as the squad settled into their luxurious accommodations. The Swedish team has set up camp at a high-end hotel complex that offers everything a professional athlete could ask for: spa facilities, a gym, a pool area, a golf course, and a dedicated games section.
Building Team Chemistry
Sweden’s approach to their pre-tournament preparations is as much about camaraderie as it is about tactical training. The squad has stocked up on board games including Codenames and other popular party games, as well as video games for downtime between sessions. “It’s always fun to do things together away from the pitch,” Karlstrom said. “It’s a great way to get closer to each other.”
Anthony Elanga, the Manchester United winger who has become a key figure in the Swedish setup, echoed that sentiment. “It’s important that we are a family,” he said. The young forward has been one of the squad’s most vocal advocates for team-building activities, believing that strong off-field bonds translate into on-field understanding.
A Home Away from Home
The Swedish delegation arrived in Dallas late Saturday night Swedish time, and the choice of base reflects careful planning by the Swedish Football Association. Frisco, a rapidly growing suburb of Dallas, offers modern facilities, proximity to the team’s training grounds, and a quiet environment away from the World Cup frenzy.
The players have access to a spa for recovery, a golf course for relaxation, and state-of-the-art gym facilities to maintain their fitness regimes. The hotel has dedicated specific areas to ensure the squad can move freely without disruption, balancing professional requirements with personal comfort.
Sweden’s World Cup Ambitions
Sweden enters the 2026 World Cup with a blend of experienced campaigners and exciting young talent. The squad features familiar names such as Alexander Isak, Dejan Kulusevski, and Victor Lindelof, alongside emerging stars. Their group stage campaign will test them against Tunisia and other opponents in what promises to be a competitive section.
The team’s management has emphasized the importance of mental preparation alongside physical readiness. With the comforts of their Dallas base and a tight-knit squad atmosphere, Sweden hopes to replicate the kind of tournament runs that have historically made them dangerous outsiders on the world stage.
“We’re having a blast together,” Karlstrom added, smiling. “But when it’s time to work, we work. The balance is key.”
