Benjamin Nygren of Sweden celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the UEFA Nations League 2026/27 group phase match between Sweden and Poland at Strawberry Arena on September 28, 2026 in Solna, Sweden. (Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images)
Nygren was part of the Celtic side that endured a bruising run of results before the international break, with the midfielder himself coming under scrutiny for some of his recent performances.
The Swede has already spoken about the pain within the Celtic dressing room following their poor run, but gave himself a much-needed positive moment against Poland.
Handed a starting place for his country, Nygren needed just eight minutes to make an impact as he arrived inside the penalty area and headed Sweden into a 1-0 lead.
His display earned mixed reviews in the Swedish media, although there was plenty of praise for his goal and work rate.
Fotbollskanalen noted both sides of his performance, writing: "In the right place in the penalty area early and headed in 1-0. After that, not very involved in the game and at one point knocked the ball away in his own half, which could have been a penalty."
Hurbra were significantly more impressed, awarding the Celtic midfielder a 4/5 rating.
They said: "Nygren got the chance from the start after Alexander Isak's injury and didn't need long to thank him for the trust.
"After just eight minutes, he headed Sweden's 1-0 after Lindelöf's cross. Nygren continued to be a threat and made it difficult for Poland to control the Swedish attack. A goal in such a match carries a lot of weight."
SvenskaFans handed Nygren a 3/5 and highlighted his commitment throughout the game.
They said: "It's clear that he loves playing for the Swedish national team. Fought and worked hard. Was up front nicely and scored the 1-0 goal with his head.
"Plays a good match both with and without the ball. Has a strong will and showed commitment."
Patrick Ekwall at TVMatchen, meanwhile, awarded Nygren a six.
He said: "On the spot when the score appeared at 1-0. Came a little off-balance and sank too deep into his role when the Poles got the upper hand."
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