Back in Dallas, where it began its campaign in the 2026 World Cup, Japan is confident it can secure a spot in the Round of 16—a goal that has become more difficult for Sweden after its crushing defeat by the Netherlands.
Japan, which put in a strong performance against the Netherlands (2-2) and routed Tunisia (4-0), is aiming for first place in Group F, but knows it will be a tough task. Tied on all points with Ronald Koeman’s team, the “Oranje” are expected to hand down a clear victory over the Tunisians, who have conceded 9 goals in two matches, despite changing coaches after the World Cup had already begun.
Sweden’s fate hangs in the balance against Japan
For now, they’re focusing on doing their part.
If they don’t lose, they’ll advance to the round of 16, where, depending on their final standing, they’ll face either Brazil or Morocco in Monterrey or Houston.
Sweden is in a worse spot, because the euphoria it felt after its rout of Tunisia was followed by the drama of an unexpected 5-1 defeat to the Netherlands.
Which means they must win to secure a spot in the playoffs.
A draw would leave their fate in the hands of others, as they would advance with 4 points as one of the top 8 third-place teams.
Led on offense by Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak, Graham Potter’s team is struggling with a defensive weakness that was exposed against Koeman’s side.
How Japan Can Capitalize on Its Rapid Transitions.
However, English coach Graham Potter, who fielded the same lineup in the first two matches, continues to rely on Victor Lindelof, Isak Hien, and Gustaf Lagerbielke (Filed under: Japan vs. Sweden).
Japan Readjusts Its Offense Without Take Kubo
Meanwhile, the Blue Samurai will be without Take Kubo.
He has already missed the game against Tunisia after suffering an injury to his left knee.
But they are riding the momentum of Daichi Kamada and Ayase Ueda, who both scored against Tunisia.
In Kubo’s absence, Junya Ito could retain his spot behind Ayase Ueda, alongside Daizen Maeda, who is returning to the team.
Kamada, therefore, might hold back (Filed under: Japan vs. Sweden).
Japan aims for the first place in Group F
NuevaOnda.com
Probable Lineups
Japan: Zion Suzuki; Ko Itakura, Kazuma Watanabe, Hiroki Ito; Ritso Doan, Kaishu Sano, Daichi Kamada, Keito Nakamura; Junya Ito, Daizen Maeda; Ayase Ueda.
Head Coach: Hajime Moriyasu
Sweden: Kristoffer Nordfeldt; Victor Lindelof, Isak Hien, Gustav Lagerbielke; Jesper Karlstrom; Anthony Elanga, Lucas Bergvall, Yasin Ayari, Gabriel Gudmundsson; Alexander Isak, Victor Gyokeres.
Head Coach: Graham Potter (GBR).
Referee: Iván Barton (El Salvador)
AT&T Stadium in Arlington. 6:00 p.m. (11:00 p.m. GMT).
With information from EFE
For more information, visit NuevaOnda.com