Sweden’s Elanga earns draw with Japan to keep their World Cup alive

Sweden salvaged a 1-1 draw with Japan, with Anthony Elanga's 62nd-minute equalizer securing their passage to the World Cup knockout stages. The result meant both teams progressed from Group F.

Daizen Maeda had put Japan ahead with a quality team goal in the 50th minute, but Elanga responded six minutes later, curling in a left-footed strike. Sweden, who had suffered a heavy defeat in their previous match, bounced back to secure a point. They advanced as one of the best third-placed teams.

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I had the feeling throughout the game that I wanted to do something today. I really have to thank Graham for the confidence he’s given me since day one. I’m happy I scored, of course I want to win, but in the end everyone shouted at me that we need to get one point. But I’m happy we’re through, and now we have to try to play even better in the next match.

"I had the feeling throughout the game that I wanted to do something today," Elanga said after the match. "I really have to thank Graham for the confidence he’s given me since day one. I’m happy I scored, of course I want to win, but in the end everyone shouted at me that we need to get one point. But I’m happy we’re through, and now we have to try to play even better in the next match."

Japan, who finished second in the group, will face five-time champions Brazil in the next round. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made crucial saves for Japan, including denying Alexander Isak twice in the second half. "I think we achieved what was important - conceding the minimum, not losing, and securing at least a point," Suzuki stated. "Being able to carry this unbeaten momentum into the Brazil match next is definitely positive."

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I think we achieved what was important - conceding the minimum, not losing, and securing at least a point. Being able to carry this unbeaten momentum into the Brazil match next is definitely positive.