Japan 1 Sweden 1: Elanga’s stunning equaliser ensures both sides progress to knockouts but Swedes face horror last 32

Japan and Sweden played a dramatic match that ended in a 1-1 draw, allowing both teams to advance to the knockout stages of the World Cup. Daizen Maeda's first-half goal initially put Japan ahead, but Anthony Elanga's spectacular equalizer ensured Sweden's progression. Despite the draw, Japan secured a spot against Brazil in the last 32, while Sweden's path could lead them to face France. This match highlighted the unpredictable nature of the tournament, where even a tie can have significant implications for the teams' futures.