Japan will meet Brazil in the World Cup last-32 stage after a 1-1 draw with Sweden, securing second place behind the Netherlands in Group F. The match, witnessed by 70,000 fans in Texas, saw Daizen Maeda give Japan the lead early in the second half, only for Anthony Elanga to equalize shortly after. Despite being considered dark horses for success in North America, Japan faced late pressure from Sweden as Alexander Isak and Elanga threatened in injury time.
The Netherlands topped the group with seven points, followed by Japan with five, Sweden with four, and Tunisia exiting the tournament without a point. Sweden, led by Graham Potter, also advanced to the knockout phase as one of the best third-placed teams. The Netherlands, securing a 3-1 victory over Tunisia, will play against Morocco in Monterrey, while Japan will face Brazil in Houston.
Heading into the final group matches, the Netherlands, Japan, and Sweden all had hopes of winning the competitive group. The Dutch and Japan, having drawn 2-2 in their encounter, were well-positioned to progress regardless of the outcomes. Sweden, following a 5-1 win against Tunisia and a loss to the Netherlands by the same scoreline, maintained a strong position before their final match. Tunisia, facing the Dutch simultaneously, had no chance of advancing.
The match saw early goals from the Dutch, indicating their control of the group. With both Japan and Sweden content with a draw, the first half lacked clear scoring opportunities. Japan’s technical prowess was evident as they controlled possession, while Sweden’s attacking duo of Isak and Gyokeres struggled to make an impact. Japan came close to scoring before halftime through Keito Nakamura’s effort.
In the second half, Japan intensified their attack, with Maeda putting them ahead on 56 minutes after a well-executed play involving Ritsu Doan. Elanga equalized for Sweden six minutes later with a powerful left-footed strike from outside the box. The momentum shifted back and forth, with both teams seeking a winner. Suzuki made crucial saves for Japan in added time, denying Elanga and Isak to secure the draw and advance to face Brazil in the next round.
