Japan Predicted Lineup vs Sweden at the FIFA World Cup 2026

Japan is one step away from the World Cup Round of 32, and all signs point to Hajime Moriyasu sticking with the same lineup that dominated Tunisia. Despite several key absences, the Samurai Blue are expected to rely on the formula that has worked so well.

Japan has found a winning formula and isn't expected to change it

Japan is just 90 minutes away from securing its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32, and everything suggests Hajime Moriyasu will once again trust the team that delivered an outstanding performance against Tunisia.

After an impressive victory in Matchday 2, the Japanese manager has little reason to make major changes. While a draw would be enough to guarantee qualification, the Samurai Blue also have their sights set on finishing at the top of Group F, a result that could provide a more favorable path in the knockout stage.

Kubo remains doubtful as injuries shape Japan's lineup

The biggest question mark heading into the match remains Takefusa Kubo. The talented playmaker is still recovering from the knee injury he suffered against the Netherlands, making his availability against Sweden highly uncertain.

Japan is also expected to be without Takumi Minamino, Kaoru Mitoma, Wataru Endo, and Shuto Machino, leaving Moriyasu with few reasons—or options—to alter the lineup that looked so convincing against Tunisia.

Ueda and Kamada lead Japan's biggest attacking threat

Ayase Ueda heads into the Sweden clash after scoring twice against Tunisia, cementing his place as Japan's main attacking threat. Daichi Kamada, meanwhile, has become the creative engine of the team, consistently finding space and helping drive Japan's attacking moves.

Ritsu Doan, Junya Ito, and Keito Nakamura are also expected to keep their places after

Japan's predicted lineup against Sweden

Barring any last-minute surprises, Japan is expected to field the same starting XI that comfortably defeated Tunisia.

Predicted Japan lineup:

Zion Suzuki; Takehiro Tomiyasu, Ko Itakura, Hiroki Ito; Ritsu Doan, Kodai Sano, Ao Tanaka, Keito Nakamura; Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada; Ayase Ueda.

With that lineup, the Samurai Blue will look to officially book their place in the Round of 32 while proving that their dominant performance in the previous match was no fluke. Facing a Sweden side desperate for points to strengthen its qualification hopes, Japan has a golden opportunity to finish the group stage on a high and continue building momentum as the knockout rounds approach.