Overview
- Sweden secured progression to the World Cup round of 32 after a 1-1 draw with Japan, a result that left them third in Group F and qualified them as one of the best third-placed teams on Friday.
- Alexander Isak has driven Sweden’s revival at the tournament by scoring and creating goals in the opening games and by operating in a more withdrawn, playmaker role alongside Viktor Gyokeres.
- Newcastle winger Anthony Elanga scored the equaliser but later admitted he did not know a draw would be enough to qualify, and Isak said he gave Elanga a telling-off after the match.
- Finishing third leaves Sweden facing a range of potential round-of-32 opponents, including the likely Group I winner, Germany, Mexico, the USA or Switzerland, with the exact matchup depending on other group outcomes.
- Isak’s World Cup form contrasts with a difficult debut season at Liverpool after his £125m move, and his fitness and performances in Dallas may shape Liverpool’s summer decisions and the striker’s role under incoming management.