World Cup 2026: Japan face Sweden for a place in the round of 16

Japan previously managed to beat Tunisia (4-0) and have four points after two matches, with a solid defence and an effective attack. Sweden, by contrast, have alternated between a heavy win over Tunisia (5-1) and a heavy defeat against the Netherlands (1-5), leaving them under pressure with only three points.

This match at AT&T Stadium will be crucial for both sides. A win would allow Japan to book their ticket to the knockout stages, while Sweden must win to stay in contention. The encounter promises a tactical battle and an intense fight on the pitch.

Group F remains open, with the Netherlands and Tunisia completing the picture, making every point vital. Previous results highlight Japan’s solidity and Sweden’s difficulties against similar opponents.

Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu has opted for a 3-4-3 system, seeking to combine defensive discipline with quick transitions, while Graham Potter’s Sweden favour an attack-minded 3-4-1-2 to exploit the pace of their forwards.

Focus on Japan

Japan are built around a 3-4-3 formation orchestrated by Hajime Moriyasu. The three-man defence is made up of Y. Sugawara, K. Itakura and H. Ito, protected by goalkeeper Z. Suzuki. In midfield, D. Kamada and A. Tanaka play key roles in organisation and creation, while R. Dōan completes this technical unit.

In attack, the key men are K. Nakamura, A. Ueda and D. Maeda, who are capable of attacking space and putting pressure on the opposing defence with their speed and mobility. This Japan team showed in their previous match their ability to control the tempo and convert their chances.

This 3-4-3 setup allows Japan to maintain a solid structure while remaining dynamic going forward. The coach is relying on the experience and understanding of his key players to impose his style.

Focus on Sweden

Sweden line up in a 3-4-1-2 system under the guidance of Graham Potter. The defence is led by V. Lindelöf, I. Hien and G. Lagerbielke, with J. Widell Zetterström in goal. This trio must contain Japan’s attacks while building play effectively from the back.

In midfield, Y. Ayari and G. Gudmundsson form a solid connecting line, supported by E. Stroud and A. Bernhardsson, who provide width. Just ahead of them, A. Elanga plays a playmaker role, supplying the attacking duo of V. Gyökeres and A. Isak, decisive players in the search for goals.

This system is designed to exploit the speed of the forwards and technical quality to gain the upper hand against Japan’s well-organised defence. Sweden will need to improve their defensive concentration to avoid the imbalances seen in their previous outings.