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World Cup: Japan keeper Suzuki banks on unbeaten momentum ahead of Brazil test in round of 32
26th June, 2026 10:21 AM
Japan custodian Zion Suzuki is confident the Samurai Blue have the capacity to battle against Brazil, whom they will face in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup.
The Asian nation advanced to the competition knockout stage as Group F runners-up after a battling 1-1 draw against Sweden on Thursday, June 25, 2026, in Dallas, USA.
The feat came after a deserved draw against the Netherlands in their group opener, and victory over group punching bag Tunisia proved sufficient for the team. Sweden also sailed through as one of the eight best third-placed teams.
Group contest
Daizen Maeda got the Japanese breakthrough in the 56th minute before a quick-fire response from Anthony Elanga six minutes later condemned the tie to a share of spoils.
Suzuki and his opponent, Sweden keeper Jacob Zetterstrom, were both instrumental in the clash with the keeper of Ghanaian descent, denying Alexander Isak and Elanga goals that would have sent Graham Potter’s men through in second place as a gripping contest ended all square.
The Japanese ultimately maintained their unbeaten run in the group stages.
Momentum
“The first half was a tight match. On the other hand, in the second half, we got the lead, but after being equalised, the momentum shifted to the opponent,” he told FIFA.
With their place secured and a tough challenge awaiting in the form of Brazil, who topped Group C, the keeper is bullish about their chances against the perennial World Cup winners.
“Despite that, I think we achieved what was important, conceding the minimum, not losing, and securing at least a point. Being able to carry this unbeaten momentum into the Brazil match next is definitely positive,” he stated.
Sweden’s Elanga, who scored a thunderous long-range shot to beat Suzuki, reserved praise for their goalkeeper for a brilliant game too.
“I really wanted to win today, but I think a point was enough in the end. And listen, I’m really proud of the whole team, especially [GK] Jakob [Zetterstrom], who came in today. I think he played a terrific game.”
