Potter says tough World Cup experience will improve Sweden.

Coach Graham Potter said his Sweden team will learn and improve from the 5‑1 World Cup defeat at the hands of a dominant Netherlands side on Saturday.

Sweden had opened their campaign with a 5‑1 victory over Tunisia but were humbled by the Netherlands in Houston.

Potter’s side, which would have qualified for the last 32 with a win, fell behind 4‑0 after Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo each scored twice.

Anthony Elanga restored some hope with a goal before Crysencio Summerville sealed the match with a fifth for Ronald Koeman’s team.

“We have to congratulate them, and as I said, I think we’ll learn a lot from the game,” said the Englishman Potter.

“The scoreline has an impact; we became somewhat passive and lacked confidence in our approach.”

“It was disappointing, but it is a learning experience and we will emerge stronger.”

Although Sweden still have a realistic chance to advance and will face a tough Japan next, Potter described the final scoreline as “harsh.”

Sweden created opportunities in both halves, registering 20 shots, nine of which were on target.

However, their defense was unstable throughout, and Sunderland striker Brobbey opened the scoring in just five minutes.

Sweden trailed 2‑0 at half‑time, yet Potter noted encouraging signs in the second half as the team generated many goal‑scoring opportunities.

“I thought the response after the break was really, really good; I felt we were the better team, actually,” he said.

“But unfortunately we conceded again, and as you can see, conceding goals is a problem.”

“So the scoreline, I think, was a bit harsh on us. That does not mean we deserve to win the game.”

“The Netherlands played well and deserve the victory.”

“But we must take the positives and learn what we can improve.”

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