Sport: Soccer Country: Brazil Category: Playoffs

Japan holds Sweden to a draw, advances to World Cup round of 32 against Brazil

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 26, 2026, 4:36 PM

Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Japan holds Sweden to a draw, advances to World Cup round of 32 against Brazil

Summary

Japan secured a spot in the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a draw against Sweden on Thursday. Daizen Maeda opened the scoring for Japan early in the second half before Anthony Elanga equalized for Sweden. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made crucial saves late in the match to maintain the scoreline. Japan finishes second in Group F and will face Brazil in the round of 32 on Monday in Houston.

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Key Details

•Japan and Sweden played to a 1-1 draw in Dallas Stadium.
•Maeda scored for Japan while Elanga equalized for Sweden.
•Zion Suzuki's key saves helped secure Japan's five points in the group.
•Japan will face Brazil on Monday in the round of 32.
•70,137 fans attended the decisive group stage match.

Latest Updates

4:36 PMCBS Sports — Keeper Zion Suzuki shines as Japan survive Sweden to set up World Cup round of 32 clash with Brazil

What they're saying

"
A hard-fought draw with Sweden sends Japan to the round of 32, where rising star goalkeeper Zion Suzuki faces his biggest test yet against powerhouse Brazil
— CBS Sportsby Sandra Herrera

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