As the World Cup heats up, Swedish captain Andreas Granqvist has captured hearts not only for his defensive brilliance but also for his deeply personal choice to stay with the national team despite his wife nearing childbirth. His decision, made with his wife’s full encouragement, has inspired fans around the world, including those following Bangla Cricket Live for every update of the tournament’s drama.
Historically, Sweden has been a tough opponent for England, with the latter only managing two wins in major tournaments. That psychological edge remains, and Granqvist confidently declared, “This Sweden can beat any team.” No matter the outcome, Sweden has already earned the title of this year’s World Cup dark horse.
In a televised interview, Granqvist shared that his wife urged him to continue his World Cup journey, even though she was due to give birth at any moment. “She wanted me to stay here in Russia,” he said, clearly moved. The veteran defender, after consulting with his wife, decided to continue leading his national team. This emotional support seems to have breathed new life into his career. At 33, Granqvist shows no signs of slowing down. He was named Sweden’s Footballer of the Year last season, and in this World Cup, he has been a rock at the back and the team’s main penalty taker. In the group stage opener against South Korea, he calmly scored the decisive penalty.
He repeated that feat in the final group match against Mexico, helping extend Sweden’s lead. After knocking out Switzerland in the Round of 16, Granqvist’s leadership has taken Sweden further than even Zlatan Ibrahimović managed in his international career.
It’s worth noting that players do have every right to take leave for family reasons. Last year, David Silva missed several games at Manchester City to be with his wife during a difficult premature birth, with coach Pep Guardiola offering full support. During this World Cup, England midfielder Fabian Delph returned home for the birth of his child, with manager Gareth Southgate granting permission without hesitation.
In many Western democracies, such moments are considered perfectly normal. As Sweden prepares to face England, emotions run high for Granqvist. With the birth of his child imminent and a World Cup quarterfinal on the horizon, his heart is clearly divided. Yet, he has chosen to continue fighting alongside his teammates, aiming to make history for his nation.
Fans watching Bangla Cricket Live can appreciate that sometimes the biggest victories come not just from goals or saves, but from the sacrifices made off the field. For Granqvist and Sweden, the story is far from over.