Japan vs Sweden World Cup 2026: Samurai Blue Reach Last 32

Japan – (Web Desk) – Japan vs Sweden World Cup 2026 ended in a 1-1 draw on Thursday, with both teams securing their places in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

The match was played in front of 70,000 fans at Dallas Stadium in Texas. The first half was quiet, with neither side taking many risks. Japan controlled the ball well but could not find the back of the net before the break.

The second half came alive quickly. Japan took the lead on 56 minutes when Daizen Maeda slotted the ball past Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom after a smart pass from Ritsu Doan.

Sweden did not wait long to respond. Just six minutes later, Anthony Elanga cut in from the right and fired a left-footed shot from outside the box to level the score at 1-1.

Sweden then pushed hard for a winner. Alexander Isak and Elanga both came close in added time, but Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made key saves to hold on for the draw.

In the final Group F standings, the Netherlands finished top with seven points after beating Tunisia 3-1. Japan ended second with five points, Sweden third with four, and Tunisia went home with zero points.

Japan will now face Brazil in the Round of 32 in Houston. Sweden, as one of the best third-placed teams, will take on France. The Netherlands face Morocco in Monterrey.