The Japanese team met the objective. The Blue Samurai drew 1-1 against Sweden on the last day of Group F of the 2026 World Cup, a result that allowed them to advance undefeated to the round of 32 as second in the sector.

Japan achieved the goal despite suffering against Sweden

The match was marked by the simultaneous development of the duel between the Netherlands and Tunisia, the result of which directly influenced the group positions.

During the first half, both teams showed little offensive intentions. The goalless draw benefited Japan, which retained second place, while Sweden had a chance to advance as one of the best third places.

After the break, the game changed pace. The Japanese found the prize in the 56th minute thanks to Daizen Maeda, who scored inside the area after a filtered assist from Ritsu Doan to make it 1-0.

The advantage was short-lived. Just five minutes later, Anthony Elanga appeared, who took a powerful left-footed shot from outside the area to beat Zion Suzuki and equalize the score.

In the final minutes, the Japanese goalkeeper was decisive with several interventions to prevent the Swedish comeback and secure the tie his team needed to qualify.

This is how Group F of the 2026 World Cup looked

With the results of the third day, the Netherlands secured the leadership of the sector after defeating Tunisia 3-1, while Japan retained second place thanks to the draw against Sweden.

The final classification was as follows:

The Dutch team advanced as the leader, Japan did so as second in the group and Sweden got its ticket to the next round as one of the best third parties.

Brazil will be Japan's next rival

The tie defined one of the most attractive matches of the round of 32. The Japanese team will face Brazil on June 29 in Houston, in a duel that will test the good moment of the Asian team.

Although the challenge looks complicated, the Japanese arrive with confidence after completing a group stage without defeats. In addition, they have the record of having defeated the Brazilian team 3-2 in a friendly match played in October.

For its part, the Netherlands will play against Morocco in Monterrey, while Sweden awaits a rival after advancing as one of the best third parties in the tournament.

With a solid performance and a defense that once again responded in the moments of greatest pressure, Japan keeps alive the dream of continuing to surprise in the 2026 World Cup, although now it will face one of the top candidates for the title.