Japan enters its decisive Group Stage Matchday 3 fixture against Sweden as the favorite after an impressive 4-0 victory over Tunisia, setting up a high-stakes battle for a place in the tournament’s Round of 32.
The Samurai Blue head into the match with four points following a draw against the Netherlands and a dominant win over Tunisia, where striker Ayase Ueda starred with two goals and an assist.
Sweden, meanwhile, bounced back from a 5-1 opening win over Tunisia only to suffer a heavy 5-1 defeat to the Netherlands. The loss exposed defensive weaknesses, with coach Graham Potter’s three-center-back system struggling to contain the Dutch attack. Anthony Elanga scored Sweden’s lone goal.
Japan needs only a draw to remain in a strong position to advance, while Sweden faces greater pressure. A defeat could end the Scandinavian side’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage due to its negative goal difference, making the encounter a must-win for Potter’s squad.
Japan will once again rely on its disciplined team play, high pressing, and quick transitions despite the likely absence of injured playmaker Takefusa Kubo. Creative responsibilities are expected to fall on Daichi Kamada and Junya Itō, with Ueda leading the attack.
Sweden, on the other hand, will look to its attacking stars Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, and Anthony Elanga to revive its campaign while tightening its defensive organization.
According to betting odds cited by 1xBet, Japan enters the match as the favorite with odds of 1.99, while Sweden is listed at 4.35 and a draw at 3.50.
The Japan-Sweden showdown is scheduled to take place at AT&T Stadium in Texas, with a place in the knockout stage on the line.
