The final round in Group F promised to be intense, especially in the battle for second place. A true tactical duel unfolded between Japan and Sweden, ending in a 1-1 draw that secured both teams’ progression to the round of 16, reports Vladimir Polonsky from overseas.
The first half resembled a high-level chess match. Neither Japan nor Sweden rushed the game, both sides emphasizing ironclad defensive discipline. The tempo was deliberately slowed, and clear scoring opportunities were scarce enough to count on one hand.
The second half took a completely different turn. In the 56th minute, Ritsu Doan delivered a brilliantly precise pass into the penalty area, where Daizen Maeda charged in at full speed. His impeccable timing and cool finish put the “Samurai” ahead 1-0.
Japan’s joy was bright but short-lived. The Scandinavians immediately ramped up the intensity. Just five minutes later, Anthony Elanga took control, driving the ball toward the edge of the box before unleashing a powerful shot that leveled the score at 1-1.
The closing stages turned into a showcase for the Japanese goalkeeper. In the final moments of stoppage time, Sweden launched a desperate assault and came agonizingly close to snatching victory. Alexander Isak managed a header from a cross, but Suzuki produced a remarkable reaction save, tipping the ball onto the crossbar with his fingertips.
Japan finished with 5 points, securing second place in the group behind the Netherlands, and will face a formidable Brazil side in the playoffs on Monday in Houston. Sweden, with 4 points, has guaranteed their advancement as one of the best third-placed teams.
World Cup 2026
Japan 1-1 Sweden (0-0)
Goals: Maeda 56 (1-0); Elanga 62 (1-1)
Japan: Suzuki D.; Sugawara; Itakura (Taniguchi, 39); Seko (Watanabe C., 75); Ito H.; Tanaka A.; Doan (Ito J., 67); Nakamura (Nagatomo, 75); Kamada; Ueda A. (Ogawa, 66); Maeda
Substitutions: Taniguchi (from 39); Ogawa (from 66); Ito J. (from 67); Watanabe C. (from 75); Nagatomo (from 75)
Reserves: Osako K.; Hayakawa; Tomiyasu; Suzuki J.; Sano; Kubo T.; Suzuki Y.; Machino; Goto; Shiogai
Yellow cards: Taniguchi 77
