Japan eyes qualification, Sweden fights for survival at World Cup 2026

Japan is looking to confirm its qualification for the 2026 World Cup knockout stage in Dallas, where their tournament began. The team, which impressed against the Netherlands (2-2) and thrashed Tunisia (4-0), aims for first place in Group F. They know a win or draw against Sweden will secure advancement.

Sweden faces a more precarious situation. After a surprising defeat to the Netherlands (5-1), they must win to guarantee qualification. A draw could leave them dependent on other results to advance as one of the best third-place teams. Despite offensive talent like Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak, Sweden's defense has shown weaknesses.

Japan will be without Take Kubo due to a knee injury, but Daichi Kamada and Ayase Ueda are in good form. Junya Ito may start alongside Daizen Maeda, with Kamada potentially dropping deeper. Japan's lineup is expected to feature Zion Suzuki; Ko Itakura, Kazuma Watanabe, Hiroki Ito; Ritso Doan, Kaishu Sano, Daichi Kamada, Keito Nakamura; Junya Ito, Daizen Maeda; Ayase Ueda. Sweden's lineup includes Kristoffer Nordfeldt; Victor Lindelof, Isak Hien, Gustaf Lagerbielke; Jesper Karlstrom; Anthony Elanga, Lucas Bergvall, Yasin Ayari, Gabriel Gudmundsson; Alexander Isak, Victor Gyokeres. The match will be officiated by Iván Barton of El Salvador at the AT&T Stadium.