FIFA World Cup 2026: Japan, Sweden advance to Round of 32 after 1-1 draw

Dallas [US], June 26 (HBTV): Japan and Sweden secured their places in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after playing out a hard-fought 1-1 draw in their final Group F match at the Dallas Stadium on Thursday, June 25 (local time).

The result ensured both teams progressed from the group stage, with Japan finishing unbeaten after recording one win and two draws. Sweden also did enough to qualify for the knockout stage.

The opening half was a tightly contested affair, with both sides prioritising defensive solidity and limiting clear-cut chances. Japan enjoyed more possession and controlled much of the midfield, while Sweden remained well organised at the back.

Both teams suffered injury setbacks before half-time. Sweden defender Isak Hien was forced off with an injury, while Japan replaced defender Ko Itakura before the interval. Despite Japan creating the better opportunities, including a fine save by Sweden goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom to deny Keito Nakamura, the teams went into the break locked at 0-0.

Japan broke the deadlock in the 56th minute through Daizen Maeda following a superb passing move involving Yukinari Sugawara, Ritsu Doan and Ayase Ueda. Maeda timed his run perfectly before calmly guiding the ball into the far corner.

Sweden responded just six minutes later when Anthony Elanga capitalised on a loose ball, cut inside from the flank and curled a fine strike beyond Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki to level the scores.

Both sides made changes in the closing stages as they looked to preserve the result that would send them through to the knockout phase. Sweden threatened from a series of late set-pieces, but Suzuki remained composed to keep the scores level.

The 1-1 draw was enough for both teams to advance to the Round of 32. The Netherlands finished top of Group F with two wins and one draw from their three group-stage matches.

(ANI)