Liverpool Target Barcola Progresses in World Cup at Isak’s Expense

Sweden dejected during the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32 match between France and Sweden at Boston Stadium on June 30, 2026, in Foxborough, United States. MAURICE VAN STEEN / ANP (Photo by ANP via Getty Images) | ANP via Getty Images

After the links to Yan Diomande fell through with the player choosing PSG, the Reds might shift their energy back to the other attacker long-rumored as a transfer target: Bradley Barcola.

Barcola’s French side easily dispensed with Aleksander Isak’s Sweden, with the Frenchman lodging the most touches in the Swedish box all game (6) and scoring one of his country’s three goals. Though Kylian Mbappé has and is deserving of the headlines, Barcola was busy throughout — though he and Isak were both limited to just one chance created.

Isak did not have the strongest game, and was withdrawn in the 89th minute having managed two shots (one on target). That Isak was more influential on the defensive side of the ball speaks perhaps to how isolated he was in attack, with himself and Viktor Gyökeres lacking any meaningful connection.

Though Isak started the competition well he will be disappointed to see his Swedish side fall so short against tournament favorites France, who move on into the Round of 16 to face the Paraguayan side that upset the Netherlands on Monday night.

Source: liverpooloffside.sbnation.com