Japan eye Group F top position ahead of crucial Sweden showdown at World Cup
By Joel Masibo, June 25, 2026Japan will face Sweden in their final Group F fixture of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Thursday, June 25, 2026, in Dallas, with coach Hajime Moriyasu emphasizing his side’s determination to finish at the top of the standings.
After two matches, Japan and the Netherlands are level on four points and occupy the leading positions in the group. A draw against Sweden would guarantee Japan a place in the knockout rounds, while the Dutch are set to meet already-eliminated Tunisia.
Speaking on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, Moriyasu said, “There are various mathematical possibilities when it comes to the standings, but the core idea within our team has always remained the same: we have to aim to win every match.”
The Japanese tactician admitted that his main concern is ensuring his players do not become overly obsessed with securing first place.
Targeting top spot
“If I have any concern, it is that we are extremely eager to finish first in the group. I worry that players might become overly focused on scoring goals and attack recklessly, disrupting the team’s balance between offense and defense, or that unnecessary substitutions could break up a system that is functioning well.” He explained.
Moriyasu made it clear that squad selection for the Sweden encounter will be guided by the objective of winning the game rather than preserving players for the next stage.
“Our stance is to aim for the win. There’ll be three days’ rest before the next game but I’m thinking about naming the best members to win this game, rather than thinking about the next one.”
Japan exited at the Round of 16 in each of the previous two World Cups, but Moriyasu believes the current squad has what it takes to achieve a deeper run this time.
“I think the team is in a very good place both physically and mentally at the moment. If we reach the knockout stage, then no matter which world-class opponent we face, we can compete on equal terms with them if we perform to our level. We even have the confidence to beat any opponent.”
The coach also noted that topping the group could offer logistical benefits, particularly if it allows Japan to play their next match in Monterrey.
“We want to finish first as it would be best if we can play in Monterrey. We already had a pre-tournament camp there, played Tunisia there and know the stadium’s atmosphere. The players know the pitch and there would be an advantage in playing in a place they’ve already experienced.”
Japan captain Kou Itakura echoed the team’s lofty ambitions, insisting that advancing from the group stage is only the beginning.
“Our goal is not just to get out of the group. We are aiming to win the World Cup. That has been very clear since the start of our preparations.” He said.
Sweden began their campaign with an emphatic 5-1 victory over Tunisia before suffering a heavy 5-1 defeat to the Netherlands in their second match.
Potter planning adjustments
Head coach Graham Potter revealed that adjustments will be made to his lineup against Japan and said his team had taken valuable lessons from the loss to the Dutch.
“I’m very impressed by Japan. I think their biggest strength is their collective organization,” Potter said.
“Whether in attack or defense, you can see the understanding between the players. There is a lot of communication that doesn’t need words. We have to be tougher defensively and at the same time make the most of our attacking qualities to break down a very well-organized team.”
Potter also highlighted Japan’s ability to maintain their high standards despite the absence of injured winger Kaoru Mitoma.
“It’s a different profile player, of course; it’s slightly different, but it’s still a solution, and that’s why it’s impressive. But collectively, they’re able to find that,” he said.
“It’s a team game, and Japan play a team game very, very well.”
The Group F contest will determine whether Japan can secure top spot and carry momentum into the knockout phase, while Sweden will be hoping to finish their campaign on a positive note despite facing a formidable opponent.