World Cup 2026: Japan in 3-4-3 with Kamada against Potter’s Sweden in 3-4-1-2

Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu has opted for a 3-4-3 formation. The setup is built around a three-man defence, supported by a wider midfield and a mobile attacking trio. On the Swedish side, Graham Potter lines up in a 3-4-1-2, favouring a playmaker behind two forwards and combining defensive solidity with attacking thrust.

Japan rely on a solid defensive base with three starting defenders — Ao Seko, Ko Itakura and Hiroki Ito. Their squad also includes midfielder Daichi Kamada, playmaker Ritsu Dōan and striker Ayase Ueda, all key figures in shaping the style of play proposed by Moriyasu. The team must, however, do without Shintaro Machino, who is unavailable because of illness.

Sweden, for their part, will count on Johan Widell Zetterström in goal and a three-man defensive line featuring Gustav Lagerbielke, Isak Hien and Victor Lindelöf. In midfield, Youssuf Ayari and Emil Stroud provide attacking support for Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres, backed up by Anthony Elanga. This 3-4-1-2 will have to respond to Japan’s intensity to stay in the qualification race.

Japan XI analysis

Moriyasu sets Japan up in a 3-4-3, a choice that prioritises both defensive cohesion and rapid counter-attacking options. The defence is anchored by Zensuke Suzuki in goal, with a central unit formed by Ao Seko and Ko Itakura, supported by Hiroki Ito and Yuta Sugawara. The latter brings an important ability to push forward on the right flank.

The four-man midfield brings together Daichi Kamada and Ao Tanaka in the centre, with Ritsu Dōan supporting the attack from a more advanced position. Up front, the attacking trident of Keito Nakamura, Ayase Ueda and Daizen Maeda offers pace and creativity, with the ability to stretch opposing defences and exploit space. This line-up reflects Moriyasu’s desire to press high and control the game in midfield.

Sweden XI analysis

Sweden present a 3-4-1-2 that emphasises defensive solidity and attacking flexibility under Graham Potter. In goal, Johan Widell Zetterström starts. Gustav Lagerbielke, Isak Hien and Victor Lindelöf make up an experienced back three capable of providing wide coverage.

In midfield, Emil Stroud and Youssuf Ayari operate in a double pivot, joined on the right by Gustav Gudmundsson and on the left by Andreas Bernhardsson, two wing-backs capable of contributing to attacks. Further forward, Anthony Elanga takes the playmaker role behind the strike duo of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres. This structure allows Sweden to balance the game and cause problems for a Japan defence under pressure.

These starting XIs embody the strategy of the two coaches for this decisive match in a Group F where the qualifying places remain within reach for both teams.