Japan faces Sweden in 2026 World Cup group match

Japan will meet Sweden on 26 June 2026 in Group F of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Dallas Stadium, United States, with an 08:00 Japan‑time kickoff. The match is decisive for Japan, which needs at least a draw to secure a top‑two finish and advance to the knockout round. Former Japan goalkeeper Kenji Homma, appearing on a Kansai TV program, highlighted the height advantage of Sweden’s twin forwards (Isaac 190 cm, Gyokelesh 189 cm) and praised Japan’s forwards, especially Kosei Ueda, for using body contact to negate larger opponents. He predicted a 3‑1 victory for Japan, noting the importance of quick shooting and tight defensive covering. Homma also emphasized goalkeeper Ayane Suzuki’s physical presence.

Japan’s coach, Hajime Moriyasu, must decide on the defensive line, with concerns over the fitness of right‑back Takumi Watanabe and libero Sho Gakuchi after they sat out the Tunisia match. Central defenders Takehiro Fukui and Takehito Tomiyasu featured in the previous game, but rotation may be needed to avoid fatigue before a potential round‑of‑32 match against Brazil or Morocco.

The match will be broadcast live on NHK General and NHK BSP4K in Japan, with free live streaming and replay on DAZN. A separate story notes that the Netherlands‑Tunisia group game may be postponed by severe weather, which could affect the standings, as Japan and the Netherlands are level on points but the Dutch currently hold a one‑goal advantage.