Sweden Captain Lindelof Proud of Wife’s Viral Rodeo Fall During World Cup

During the 2022 World Cup match between Sweden and Japan, Maya Nilsson Lindelof, wife of Sweden's captain Victor Lindelof, became a viral sensation for reasons off the pitch. Maya, founder of the fashion brand Lis Bonne Atelier, posted a 59-second Instagram video showing her falling off a mechanical bull at a Texas bar while slightly intoxicated. She captioned the clip, "I'm still a bit drunk while posting this... maybe I'll delete it later." Victor Lindelof shared the video at a press conference before Sweden's round of 16 match against France, calling it funny and expressing interest in trying the challenge himself.

On the field, Sweden prepared for a tough knockout stage game against France after finishing their group with a 1-1 draw against Japan, a 5-1 win over Tunisia, and a 5-1 loss to the Netherlands. Coach Graham Potter emphasized the need for Sweden to play their best, praising Lindelof's leadership, especially after the heavy defeat to the Netherlands. Lindelof, who will turn 32 next month, played in a defensive midfield role against Japan but was substituted in the 87th minute due to cramps. He acknowledged the physical demands of midfield compared to defense but enjoyed the role.

Lindelof was also excited that his wife and children traveled to New York to watch the upcoming match against France, with Maya sharing photos from Times Square. Sweden will be without defender Isak Heyne, who suffered a hamstring injury during the Japan game and was substituted early.

The incident with Maya Nilsson Lindelof added a lighthearted moment amid the intense World Cup atmosphere, with Victor embracing the humor and challenge of his wife's mechanical bull ride mishap.