Daizen Maeda scores, Anthony Elanga levels: Japan and Sweden draw 1-1

In the third round of the 2026 World Cup group stage, Japan drew 1-1 with Sweden. Neither side scored in the first half, leaving the interval at 0-0.

Both goals came after the break. In the 56th minute, Japan took the lead through Daizen Maeda, with Ritsu Doan providing the assist, making it 1-0. Sweden answered in the 62nd minute when Anthony Elanga finished a Viktor Gyökeres assist to bring the score level at 1-1. The score did not change again, and the match ended with one point apiece.

In the statistical breakdown, Japan had 52% possession to Sweden's 48%. Japan recorded 8 shots with 3 on target, while Sweden had 11 shots with 5 on target. Japan won 2 corners compared with Sweden's 8, and Japan were caught offside 3 times to Sweden's 2. Japan made 4 saves and Sweden 2, while fouls were 20 for Japan and 11 for Sweden.

In the second round of the group stage, Japan beat Tunisia 4-0, while Sweden lost 1-5 to the Netherlands.