Japan vs Sweden

Japan and Sweden shared a tense 1-1 draw at Dallas Stadium that sent the Blue Samurai into the Round of 32 — and sent the Swedes packing. The most heart-stopping moment came deep in stoppage time, when Alexander Isak's thunderous header crashed against the crossbar with the scores still level. Daizen Maeda broke the deadlock on 56 minutes, latching onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Ritsu Doan and slotting home with composure. Sweden responded almost immediately — Anthony Elanga leveling things on 61 minutes with a sharp strike that flashed through a packed penalty area. Cautions for Isak Hien (32'), Shogo Taniguchi (77'), and Viktor Gyökeres (85') added edge to the contest, though no one saw red. Japan advance as Group F runners-up on five points and will face Morocco in the next round. Sweden, stranded a point behind, are eliminated — their 2026 campaign ending at the group stage.