Sweden Predicted Lineup vs Japan at the FIFA World Cup 2026

Sweden heads into a must-win clash against Japan with Graham Potter expected to make important changes to his starting lineup. Lucas Bergvall and Anthony Elanga could be the fresh faces as the Scandinavians fight to stay alive at the 2026 World Cup.

Japan Puts Sweden to the Test

Sweden faces one of its biggest matches of the 2026 World Cup when it takes on Japan in a game that could decide its future in the tournament. The Scandinavians know they need a positive result to keep their qualification hopes alive, and Graham Potter is expected to make a few changes to his starting lineup.

While Japan arrives with four points and is close to securing a place in the knockout stage, Sweden enters the match under much greater pressure. A victory would put the Europeans in a strong position to advance, while a draw could leave them relying on other results.

Bergvall and Elanga Could Be the New Faces in the Starting XI

One of the biggest storylines is the possible inclusion of Lucas Bergvall. The young midfielder is expected to earn his first start of the tournament after making substitute appearances in Sweden's first two group-stage matches.

Another player who could move into the lineup is Anthony Elanga, who impressed after coming off the bench in the previous game. His pace and attacking ability could be valuable against a disciplined Japanese side that has looked well organized throughout the tournament.

Sweden's predicted lineup is:

Nordfeldt; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelöf; Elanga, Bergvall, Karlström, Ayari, Gudmundsson; Gyökeres, Isak.

Isak and Gyökeres Remain Sweden's Biggest Threat

One thing that is not expected to change is Sweden's strike partnership. Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres are set to lead the attack once again in what could be the team's most important match of the group stage.

The two forwards are Sweden's biggest stars, and much of the team's hopes will rest on their ability to create and finish chances. Against a Japanese defense that has conceded very few goals so far, every opportunity could prove decisive.

Sweden would fine-tune its starting lineup

The meeting between Japan and Sweden has all the ingredients to become one of the standout games of the day. Japan is just one result away from booking its place in the knockout rounds, while Sweden still has everything to play for.

According to reports ahead of the match, Graham Potter believes his expected lineup changes can give the team a different look and improve its chances of earning the result it desperately needs.