Japan vs Sweden World Cup 2026: Confirmed Lineups, Group F Stakes and Live Score

Lineups confirmed and kick-off details

Japan and Sweden named their starting XIs for the decisive Group F meeting at the 2026 World Cup, which kicked off at 23:00 UTC on 25 June 2026. According to the confirmed lists published before kick-off, Hajime Moriyasu selected Suzuki; Seko, Itakura, H. Ito; Sugawara, Kamada, Tanaka, Nakamura; Doan, Maeda; Ueda for Japan. Sweden manager Graham Potter opted for Zetterstrom; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelof; Bernhardsson, Ayari, Stroud, Gudmundsson; Elanga; Gyokeres, Isak.

Why it matters

This fixture carries immediate qualification implications in Group F. Before the match, Japan sat above Sweden with four points, while Sweden had three; the Netherlands led the group with four points and a superior goals tally. A win for either Japan or Sweden could decide who progresses directly and who must rely on finishing as one of the better third-placed teams, while a draw would preserve Japan's favourable position but could leave margins tight in the final group table.

Confirmed lineups — full lists

Japan (starting XI as confirmed): Suzuki; Seko, Itakura, H. Ito; Sugawara, Kamada, Tanaka, Nakamura; Doan, Maeda; Ueda.

Sweden (starting XI as confirmed): Zetterstrom; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelof; Bernhardsson, Ayari, Stroud, Gudmundsson; Elanga; Gyokeres, Isak.

Live score and group table context

At the time of the supplied match_data the game was in the first half with the score goalless (0-0). Group F standings supplied alongside the lineups show: the Netherlands top with four points, a +4 goal difference and seven goals scored; Japan second with four points, a +4 goal difference and six goals scored; Sweden third on three points with a 0 goal difference and six goals scored; Tunisia bottom with zero points and a -8 goal difference.

Tactical and selection notes (what the confirmed XIs indicate)

Both managers named established international figures in their starting XIs. Japan’s selection features players who have been central to recent results, while Sweden’s XI includes their recognised attacking pair. The confirmed starters give each side a clear attacking remit, and the choice of personnel from both managers will shape how they approach the remainder of the first half and the second half in pursuit of a result that could determine progression from the group.

• Kick-off: 23:00 UTC, 25 June 2026 (match_data).
• Live status at supplied update: 1st half, Japan 0–0 Sweden (match_data).
• Japan starting XI: Suzuki; Seko, Itakura, H. Ito; Sugawara, Kamada, Tanaka, Nakamura; Doan, Maeda; Ueda (source).
• Sweden starting XI: Zetterstrom; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelof; Bernhardsson, Ayari, Stroud, Gudmundsson; Elanga; Gyokeres, Isak (source).
• Group F prior to the match: Netherlands 4 pts (+4, 7 goals), Japan 4 pts (+4, 6 goals), Sweden 3 pts (0 GD, 6 goals), Tunisia 0 pts (-8 GD) (source).

What it means for qualification

With the standings as supplied, a win for Japan would strengthen their hand and could potentially secure qualification depending on the Netherlands’ result, while a Swedish victory would leapfrog them into contention and apply pressure on Japan. A draw would keep Japan in a stronger position than Sweden but would leave all three (Netherlands, Japan, Sweden) tightly packed on points and goals going into the final round of group matches.

Readers should note this account is based on the confirmed pre-match lineups and the snapshot match status provided; for developments after the first half—goals, substitutions or late injuries—refer to live match coverage or official team communications.

What happens next

The result of this match will finalise most of Group F’s picture ahead of the final round of group games. Teams and neutral observers will be watching goal difference and goals scored closely: the supplied standings show only small margins separate the top three. Confirmed lineups are in and managers will have to adapt at half-time and beyond depending on the game flow.