Sweden and Japan both secured their places in the World Cup last 32 after a 1-1 draw in Dallas, a result that suited both sides. Anthony Elanga's brilliant long-range strike cancelled out Daizen Maeda's opener for Japan, ensuring Sweden finished second in Group F and Japan progressed as runners-up.
First-Half Stalemate
The opening 45 minutes were largely uneventful, with neither side creating clear-cut chances. Japan's Keita Nakamura forced a save from Sweden goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström just before the break, the only notable action of the half. Both teams appeared cautious, mindful of the stakes.
Maeda Opens the Scoring
Japan took the lead in the 68th minute through a well-worked goal. Ritsu Doan played a quick one-two with Ayase Ueda before delivering a first-time pass into the path of Daizen Maeda, who finished clinically. The goal came shortly after the Netherlands extended their lead against Tunisia, confirming Japan would finish second in the group regardless of the result.
Elanga's Equalizer
Sweden responded within six minutes. Viktor Gyökeres drew defenders away with an unselfish run, allowing Anthony Elanga to cut inside from the right and unleash a swerving shot that beat goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. The strike was Elanga's second goal of the tournament, having also scored against the Netherlands.
Late Drama
Sweden almost snatched a winner in stoppage time when Alexander Isak's near-post header from a corner was tipped onto the bar by Suzuki. Japan substitute Koki Ogawa also had a chance to win it but shot over from close range.
Manager Reactions
Sweden coach Graham Potter expressed relief at the result. "I'd have snapped his hand off, yeah!" he joked when asked about a potential draw. "Over the course of the game I think it was a fair result and arguably we were slightly better in the second half." Potter praised Gyökeres's performance, calling it "an outstanding performance from a centre-forward with his back to goal."
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu looked ahead to a last-32 meeting with Brazil in Houston. "This is proof of the growth in Japanese football," he said. "Of course [Brazil] are perfect but we do believe there is a chance for us to win. We proved to Brazil that we're not a pushover and that's a great advancement for us."
Group Standings
Japan finish second in Group F and will face Brazil on Monday. Sweden, also advancing, could face Germany, France, or Norway in the next round. The draw ensures both teams avoid the third-place lottery, with Japan taking confidence from a 3-2 friendly win over Brazil in October 2024.
