Japan defeated Sweden 1–1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F at AT&T Stadium, Dallas on June 25, 2026. This match report covers the goals, key stats, and what it means for the group stage. For live tables see group standings or the knockout bracket.
Japan 1-1 Sweden — How the Goals Were Scored
The FIFA World Cup 2026 clash between Japan and Sweden in Group Stage - 3 produced a result that reshapes the Group F picture. The opening half set the tempo at AT&T Stadium: both sides looked to establish control in a fixture where three points carried significant weight in the 48-team tournament.
The decisive moments came through Daizen Maeda 56' (assist: Ritsu Doan); Anthony Elanga 62' (assist: Viktor Gyökeres). Japan found the net through Daizen Maeda. Sweden responded via Anthony Elanga. Each goal shifted momentum in a contest that remained competitive until the final whistle.
The points were shared in a 1–1 draw that keeps both Japan and Sweden in the hunt for knockout qualification from Group F.
Match Stats — Japan vs Sweden, World Cup 2026
The statistical story underlined possession of 52% to 48% between Japan and Sweden. Japan created the superior threat according to shots and expected goals, reflecting the pressure applied across both halves in Dallas.
| Stat | Japan | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 1 | 1 |
| Possession | 52% | 48% |
| Total Shots | 8 | 11 |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 5 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | — | — |
Daizen Maeda, Anthony Elanga and the Tactical Battle
Daizen Maeda carried much of Japan's attacking threat in this World Cup 2026 fixture, linking play between midfield and the final third while Sweden sought to disrupt rhythm through compact defending. The tactical battle hinged on which side could convert territorial advantage into clear chances at AT&T Stadium.
Coaching decisions — substitutions, width, and pressing triggers — proved influential as the match progressed. Daizen Maeda stood out as the defining performer, influencing the result with a decisive contribution when neither side needed it most. Both benches will review this Japan vs Sweden tape ahead of their next Group F assignment.
Japan World Cup 2026 Group F Standings After Group Stage - 3
This 1–1 outcome directly affects the Group F table at FIFA World Cup 2026. Both teams remain within reach of the top two places. Current standings: 1. Netherlands — 7pts; 2. Japan — 5pts; 3. Sweden — 4pts; 4. Tunisia — 0pts.
The next matchday in Group F promises further drama as teams chase the knockout round.
| # | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Netherlands | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 7 |
| 2 | Japan | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 5 |
| 3 | Sweden | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 |
| 4 | Tunisia | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | -10 | 0 |
Japan Next Match at World Cup 2026 — Brazil, June 29, 2026, NRG Stadium
Japan return to action against Brazil, June 29, 2026, NRG Stadium. Three points in this Group F fixture are essential to revive their campaign.
Sweden face France, June 30, 2026, MetLife Stadium next. They need a positive result to stay on course in Group F.
How to Watch Japan vs Sweden World Cup 2026 Highlights
In the United States, Japan vs Sweden is carried on FOX Sports and Telemundo (Spanish). UK viewers can watch on BBC and ITV (free to air). SBS (Australia), MBC/KBS/SBS (South Korea), and national broadcasters in each competing country also hold rights in their territories. FWC Live Score does not link to unofficial streams — use your national broadcaster's official World Cup 2026 TV schedule. For kickoff times see our fixtures page and how to watch guide.
FAQs
- Q: What was the final score of Japan vs Sweden at World Cup 2026?
- A: Japan 1–1 Sweden at full time.
- Q: Who scored for Japan vs Sweden World Cup 2026?
- A: Daizen Maeda (Japan, 56'); Anthony Elanga (Sweden, 62')
- Q: Who was man of the match — Japan vs Sweden?
- A: Daizen Maeda was the standout performer.
- Q: When is Japan's next World Cup 2026 match?
- A: Japan play Brazil, June 29, 2026, NRG Stadium.
- Q: What position is Japan in World Cup 2026 Group F?
- A: Japan are 2nd in Group F with 5 points.
- Q: Where was Japan vs Sweden World Cup 2026 played?
- A: AT&T Stadium, Dallas.