Former Manchester United captain Antonio Valencia has made a bold World Cup prediction, backing Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres to challenge for the Golden Boot after his impressive performance in Sweden's 5-1 victory over Tunisia.
Sweden's Dominant Start
Graham Potter's Sweden side, who qualified via the play-offs, announced themselves as potential dark horses with a crushing win in their Group F opener. The goals of Viktor Gyokeres carried Sweden to the finals, but the return to full fitness of Liverpool's record signing Alexander Isak presented Potter with a selection dilemma. Despite hinting he might not start both players, Potter paired them against Tunisia, a decision that paid off handsomely.
Both Premier League stars got on the scoresheet, with Gyokeres assisting Isak before Isak returned the favor in the second half. Sweden now faces Netherlands and Japan in their next fixtures.
Valencia's Golden Boot Prediction
Valencia, speaking to Hajper, said: 'I can see Viktor Gyokeres fighting for the Golden Boot. He has had a good season and a good Champions League, but we know there are also other interesting players who have done things well. I think it will be very difficult this year. The World Cup will also be like a battle to see who wins it.'
The former Manchester United skipper added: 'Who will perform better at the World Cup – Viktor Gyökeres or Alexander Isak? I think you will see stronger strikers, strikers who are not going to make so many runs in behind because of the heat and the pitches. It will be complicated. I think strikers will want to play more with their backs to goal and have more of the ball. Because it is going to be very hot, I do not think a striker will make 20 runs in behind the defence in one match. They will have to control their movement more, hold the ball up more and be very intelligent in this tournament. So it could suit Gyokeres more.'
Havertz Leads the Early Race
If Gyokeres is to win the Golden Boot, he must overhaul Arsenal teammate Kai Havertz, who helped Germany to a 7-1 win over Curacao. Havertz scored a penalty and a dinked finish to underline his confidence after a strong domestic season.
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann said: 'It took us a few minutes to get back into the game after they equalised. Curacao can play football too, as we saw, and I'm curious to see how they'll fare in the group going forward. I'm very satisfied with us scoring seven goals and our performance for the most part. A winning start is always important and we're glad we managed it.'
More World Cup coverage: Alan Shearer disagrees with Thomas Tuchel's decision to drop an England star; Rod Stewart faces backlash for celebrating at the World Cup; Amad Diallo speaks out on being benched after scoring Ivory Coast's winner.
