Maeda and Elanga trade blows as Japan and Sweden advance in 1-1 stalemate
The Mt Kenya Times 
Two well-taken goals in six second-half minutes settle a tense Group F finale at Dallas Stadium
By Norman Mwale
“We came for the win, but we leave with our heads high and a place in the knockouts.”
Japan and Sweden played out a gripping 1-1 draw on 25 June 2026 at Dallas Stadium to seal their passage to the round of 32 — a result that saw the Samurai Blue advance to the knockout phase for the fourth consecutive tournament and the fifth time in their eight World Cup appearances since first doing so as co-hosts in 2002. The match turned on two second-half strikes, with Daizen Maeda breaking the deadlock for Japan before Anthony Elanga replied for Sweden to ensure both nations progressed.
The contest remained goalless through a cagey first half, but it ignited after the interval. Japan took the lead in the 56th minute when Maeda finished clinically inside the penalty area, sending the Samurai Blue supporters into celebration and putting Sweden under immediate pressure. The Scandinavian response was swift. Six minutes later, Elanga struck a fine left-footed equaliser to level matters at 1-1 and guarantee his side a place in the last 32. “It was about staying calm under pressure,” Elanga said afterwards. “We knew one goal would change everything, and I’m just glad I could help Sweden through.”
For Japan, the point extended a proud run of consistency on the global stage. Head coach Hajime Moriyasu praised his team’s composure. “To advance for a fourth tournament in a row is not by chance,” Moriyasu said. “Maeda’s goal gave us control, and the players showed resilience after Sweden hit back.” Sweden manager Jon Dahl Tomasson was equally measured. “We wanted three points, but in tournament football you must also manage the moment. Elanga’s 62nd-minute finish gave us the foothold we needed.”
The final 1-1 scoreline meant Japan marched into the knockout rounds with momentum and history behind them, while Sweden advanced with a match-winner in form and bursting with confidence. Both sides now turn their attention to the round of 32, carrying belief from a match defined by precision, nerve, and two expertly taken goals.
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