Japan Preview
Japan take the Tunisia lift back to Arlington for Sweden.
Japan vs Sweden is set for June 25, 2026 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, with kickoff at 6:00 p.m. UTC-5. Japan have four points after the 2-2 Netherlands draw and the 4-0 Tunisia win, so the final Group F match is about turning a strong position into a settled finish.
The Tunisia scoreline gave Japan room; Sweden will test how real it is.
Japan come back to Arlington with the group looking far calmer than it did after the Netherlands draw. The Tunisia win had goals, a clean sheet, and enough variety to travel well. Sweden are the test of whether that was a one-night surge or the shape Japan can carry into the next stage.
Moriyasu's side do not need to chase the match from the first whistle, but they cannot let it get static. The best version of Japan keeps the passing sharp, wins the first duel after losing the ball, and makes Sweden defend turns instead of only crosses.
What Japan need from the first half
The first half is about tempo more than noise. Japan looked at their best against Tunisia when the ball moved before the block could settle, and that same quickness matters against a Sweden side that will be comfortable if the match becomes slow and direct.
Ayase Ueda's two goals in Guadalupe changed the feel around the attack. With Kamada and Ito also on the scoresheet in that 4-0 win, Japan have more than one route into the match if the group finale tightens.
Japan vs Sweden, June 25 at 6:00 p.m. UTC-5, AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Japan have four points from two World Cup 2026 group matches.
What matters next
The Japan schedule page carries the current match hub, the Tunisia final report, and the Netherlands archive. The Tunisia follow-up remains the clean bridge into this Sweden match.
For squad context before kickoff, use the Japan team hub and Japan squad page.
Match Timeline