Japan vs Sweden

Japan booked their place in the Round of 32 with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Sweden in a decisive Group F finale that ultimately saw all three of Japan, Sweden, and the Netherlands progress to the knockout rounds. The result meant Japan finished level on points with Sweden, but their superior goal difference — built on their record-breaking 4-0 win over Tunisia — proved enough to seal their advancement. Keito Nakamura, whose dramatic equaliser against the Netherlands in the opener turned him into one of the tournament's breakout social media stars, was once again a key outlet down the left for the Samurai Blue. Hajime Moriyasu's side will now look to better their Qatar 2022 run, where they reached the Round of 16, as they head into the knockout stage full of confidence.