Here is what to expect from the showdown in Dallas.
Dallas Stadium will play host to a potential winner-takes-all encounter.
Sweden led Group F after the first round of matches but despite a 5-1 humbling by the Netherlands, will qualify for the knockout phase as Group F winners (and meet the Group C runners-up in the Round of 32 in Monterrey on June 29) if:
Japan’s spirited fightback against the same opponent coupled with a 4-0 rout over Tunisia puts them in a strong position for automatic Round of 32 qualification. They will qualify for the knockout phase as Group F winners (and meet the Group C runners-up in the Round of 32 in Monterrey on June 29) if:
Japan’s Takehiro Tomiyasu has consistently impressed at this World Cup™ with the veteran getting a Defending Score of 8.1 in the FIFA Power Rankings – powered by Aramco in their 4-0 win over Tunisia.
In attack, it’s Ayase Ueda who has looked most dangerous for the Blue Samurai, getting an Attacking Score of 8.4 thanks to his brace against Tunisia.
Alexander Isak is a man on a mission for Sweden at this World Cup™ after overcoming an ankle injury which limited his impact during a debut season with Liverpool. His Attacking Score of 7.4 in their 5-1 win over Tunisia was earned thanks to two assists and a goal.
Isak is behind Yasin Ayari on that front, having netted twice in that opening game victory.
Japan fans showing their respect for this tournament by cleaning the stadium post-match. It’s great to see.