Sweden need to control space in Japan clash, says Potter

Sweden must tighten their defense and maintain compactness when facing Japan in their final World Cup group game, according to coach Graham Potter.

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We have to be compact as a team defensively. I think with Japan, because of their coordination, because of their organisation, because of how synchronised they are, if the pitch is big and we're defending big areas, then it's going to be a tough day.

Following a disappointing 5-1 defeat to the Netherlands, Potter highlighted the importance of defensive solidity against a well-organized Japanese side. "We have to be compact as a team defensively," Potter stated in an extended media briefing. "I think with Japan, because of their coordination, because of their organisation, because of how synchronised they are, if the pitch is big and we're defending big areas, then it's going to be a tough day."

Potter acknowledged the challenge of balancing defense and attack, especially with a squad possessing players who excel at exploiting large spaces. "I think we've probably got some of the best players in the world attacking big spaces, so there is something about being low, but not too low and not too passive because you want to set up chances to attack," he explained.

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I think we've probably got some of the best players in the world attacking big spaces, so there is something about being low, but not too low and not too passive because you want to set up chances to attack.

Despite sitting third in Group F, behind the Netherlands and Japan on goal difference, Potter expressed confidence in Sweden's potential. "On our day, I think we are capable of giving everybody a game and winning a football match, absolutely," he said. He also noted that the team has had limited time together but stressed it was no excuse, vowing they would be ready to play and try to win.

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On our day, I think we are capable of giving everybody a game and winning a football match, absolutely. But it's also clear we haven't had much time together and that's also a factor, but it's no excuse. We'll be ready for the game and we'll try to win.