Japan prepares to face Sweden on June 25, 2026, aiming to win their final Group F match at the World Cup and finish at the top of the group [1, 2, 3]. The team currently holds 4 points, with a 4-0 win over Tunisia and a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands, positioning them strongly to advance to the round of 32 [4, 5, 6, 2, 3]. A draw against Sweden would still secure Japan at least second place and a place in the knockout stage [1, 2, 3].
Coach Hajime Moriyasu stressed the importance of teamwork and balance ahead of the match. He said, “Anyone can play with anyone else, that's the readiness we wanted to ensure,” and added, “We are basically thinking of winning, that's what's in our mind. If possible we would like to advance on top of the group by scoring as many goals, but distorting the balance of the team is more of a risk” [4]. Moriyasu also confirmed the team aims to win and qualify in first place and believes playing in Monterrey would be optimal [1].
Japan faces setbacks due to injuries. Former captain Wataru Endo, winger Kaoru Mitoma, and playmaker Takumi Minamino are out of the tournament. Takefusa Kubo is expected to miss the match against Sweden with a knee injury [4, 5, 6]. Despite this, Japan’s ambition remains high. Defender Ko Itakura said, “Our goal is not just to advance from the group but ultimately to win the World Cup,” showing the team’s broader aspirations [2, 3].
Sweden, meanwhile, comes into the match with mixed results in Group F. They beat Tunisia 5-1 but suffered a heavy 1-5 defeat to the Netherlands [4, 6, 2, 3]. The Swedish side plans lineup and tactical changes for the match against Japan to address their prior loss [4, 6, 2, 3]. Their attackers Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres are considered key threats, described as world-class strikers [4, 5, 6].
The match outcome will determine Japan’s opponent in the knockout round; topping the group would help them avoid facing Brazil early in the tournament [1, 2, 3]. Japan plays Sweden today with the objective of securing the group’s top spot and maintaining momentum into the knockout phase.
