The final group stage games are upon us here as Dallas Stadium hosts Group F’s deciding game between Sweden and Japan.
The Samurai Blue come back to North Texas, after tying the Netherlands 2-2 in their World Cup opener before dismantling Tunisia 4-0. Japan sits second in the group on four points, level with Netherlands but behind on goals. Sweden’s tournament has been a tale of two halves: a 5-1 demolition of Tunisia, followed by a 5-1 blowout loss to the Dutch. They’re on three points, one point back of Japan with little margin for error tonight.
Japan only needs a draw to advance. Sweden needs at least a draw to feel comfortable in third place, with a win opening the door for a more comfortable path.
One more thread worth keeping watch over tonight is FC Dallas defender Herman Johansson. He made Sweden’s roster late as an injury replacement, but he has yet to see the pitch in the tournament.
Here’s what you need to know.
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Lineups
More on the teams:
Drew Epperley
Drew Epperley
Three Things to Watch
Isak and Gyokeres vs. A Defense That Has Something to Prove
Sweden’s entire tournament really relies on two people. Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak form one of the most dangerous strike partnerships at this tournament. Against Tunisia they looked solid, but against the Netherlands, they were held in check. The problem is Japan’s back line knows exactly what is coming. They managed to hold the Netherland’s attack mostly in check and can do the same in this one. Looking at Gyokeres, if he can finally get into open space behind the defense, Japan will find out real quick why he works so well at Arsenal.
Kubo’s Absence Opens a Door — Can Sweden Walk Through It?
Takefusa Kubo is likely out with a knee sprain, removing an important creative option for Japan. That is a massive loss for their attack, as Kubo adds something unpredictable. While the Japanese defense will remain sound in this one, their attack needs a spark. For Sweden, that could be the opening they need in a match where they need a win.
Sweden’s Defense Has to Be Better Than It Was Against the Dutch — Full Stop
There is no getting around it, the Netherlands dominated everything against Sweden last weekend. The Sweds haven’t kept a clean sheet in 13 matches and have conceded 22 times in their last 10 outings. The defense isn’t just bad, it is dangerously leaky at a time when they need to be tighter. Sweden cannot afford another defensive collapse in this one, as it could end their World Cup run. If they give up an early goal, this one could get away from them in a hurry like it did against the Netherlands.
The Vibe Check
The Swedes had a similar march to the stadium that the Dutch had a few days back. One side of the stadium is bright yellow, while the other is blue and white.
Out of the four games I’ve been to so far, this is by far the one I was most excited to see in person.
The Call
If Sweden can find their defense again, this could be a good game. If not, don’t be shocked if Japan walks all over them. My gut tells me we’re in for another draw though, 2-2.
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