Japan opened its 2026 World Cup campaign with a 2-2 draw with Netherlands beat Tunisia 4-0 in its next match. | Photo Credit: Getty Images via AFP

Japan will look to enter FIFA World Cup knockouts for the third time in a row as it takes on Sweden at the Dallas Stadium in Texas, USA.

The Samurai Blue reached the round 16 in the last edition of the World Cup, beating Germany and Spain, before losing to Croatia. Under same coach Hajime Moriyasu, it will look to improve on that record in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

How can Japan qualify for round of 32 of FIFA World Cup 2026?

Scenario 1: Japan beats Sweden

With a win in Dallas, Japan will guarantee a top-two finish in Group F with seven points. It will win the group if the Netherlands draws or loses to Tunisia, or if Japan wins by a margin that overcomes the Netherlands on goal difference/goals scored tiebreakers.

Scenario 2: Japan draws with Sweden

A draw will guarantee Japan finishes at least second in the group with five points, securing a spot in the final 32 of FIFA World Cup 2026.

Scenario 3: Japan loses Sweden

Sweden will jump to six points, pushing Japan to third place with four points. With a strong current goal difference, Japan will be in the driving seat to qualify as one of the top eight third-placed teams.

Published on Jun 26, 2026