Anthony Elanga scores first international goal for Sweden

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Anthony Elanga put a bow on his memorable breakthrough season by scoring his first ever international goal.

Elanga came off the bench in a Scandinavian derby against Norway, with Sweden 2-0 down to an Erling Haaland brace.

The Manchester United prospect pulled one back to make it 2-1, with an injury time strike. And as far as goals go, it was a pretty good one – a memorable way for Elanga to net his first international goal.

Elanga scores first international goal

This was only Elanga’s third appearance for Sweden at international level. All three games have been as a substitute.

This goal was just what the 20-year-old needed after a difficult end to the season for Manchester United. He curled in an effort from outside the box after good link-up play with his teammates.

Elanga was a bright spot in United’s season, netting a goal in the Champions League away at Atletico Madrid, as well as goals away at Leeds and Brentford.

But his Atletico strike was his final one of the campaign, and he seemed to get ground down by United’s overall malaise.

This has still been a really positive season for the youngster, who took a big step forward in 2022 under interim boss Ralf Rangnick. His call-up into Sweden’s senior squad is reflective of his first team rise.

Now he has to work to impress new manager Erik ten Hag in pre-season, and his international exploits won’t do him any harm at all.

Sweden face Serbia later this week before another match with Norway, and Elanga’s goal puts him in with a strong shout to start for his country for the very first time.