Japan and Sweden Draw, Both Advance

A tense 1-1 draw between Japan and Sweden at the World Cup proved a happy outcome for both nations, as the result allowed both teams to advance to the knockout stages.

Japan took the lead through Daizen Maeda, but Anthony Elanga struck back for Graham Potter's Sweden side to ensure qualification.

The draw sparked a brief moment of devastation for a Swedish star who had been unaware that the result was sufficient to put them through as one of the best third-placed sides, leading to an emotional realization on the pitch.

The match saw Japan's Ao Tanaka shine in midfield, while Leeds United teammate Jørgen Strand Larsen struggled in an unfamiliar role for the Swedes.

The Samurai Blue will face a 'serious Brazil' side in the next round, a prospect that coach Hajime Moriyasu said he relishes.