Japan looks to confirm its place in the next round

Japan enters the final matchday of Group F with the chance to secure qualification for the Round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. After drawing against the Netherlands and convincingly beating Tunisia, Hajime Moriyasu’s side controls its own destiny and still has a chance to finish as group leader.

The Asian side has displayed dynamic football, built on the speed of its transitions and the efficiency of players such as Daichi Kamada and Ayase Ueda, who are enjoying a strong attacking run.

Sweden fights to stay alive in the World Cup

Sweden’s situation is much more delicate. After opening with a convincing victory over Tunisia, the Scandinavian side suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat against the Netherlands, a result that seriously complicated its hopes.

Now, Graham Potter’s team needs all three points to secure its place in the next round without depending on other results. A draw would leave them waiting on a combination of results to try to advance as one of the best third-place teams.

Japan’s leaders and Sweden’s hope

The absence of Take Kubo, who continues to recover from a knee injury, once again forces Moriyasu to adjust his attack. However, Japan still has significant attacking power thanks to the strong form of Kamada, Ueda, Junya Ito and Daizen Maeda.

On the Swedish side, all eyes will be on the partnership of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres, two forwards capable of making the difference at any moment. However, the European team’s main concern remains a defense that showed many weaknesses in its most recent match.

Possible lineups

Japan

Zion Suzuki; Kou Itakura, Ayumu Seko, Hiroki Ito; Ritsu Doan, Kaishu Sano, Daichi Kamada, Keito Nakamura; Junya Ito, Daizen Maeda; Ayase Ueda.

Sweden

Kristoffer Nordfeldt; Victor Lindelöf, Isak Hien, Gustaf Lagerbielke; Jesper Karlström; Anthony Elanga, Lucas Bergvall, Yasin Ayari, Gabriel Gudmundsson; Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres.