World Cup 2026: Japan held by Sweden in dramatic Group F finale

Japan and Sweden fought out a dramatic 1-1 draw in Dallas in the final Group F match, leaving the top spot in the hands of the Netherlands. Daichi Maeda gave Japan the lead with a sublime team move, before Alexander Elanga’s stunning finish equalised for the Swedes. Japan is set to face Brazil in their Round of 32 while Sweden will await their knockout opponent – either France or Senegal – depending on Group I’s final standings.