- Recent form: Japan are unbeaten in their last 5 matches (4 wins, 1 draw)
- Recent results: Sweden are unbeaten in 4 of their last 5 matches (3 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss)
- Odds: Japan are favored to win at 2.18, Sweden are 3.35, with the draw at 3.4.
Japan looking to make it 2 in a row
Tactics and approach
Since being appointed manager in 2018, Hajime Moriyasu has refined a highly flexible and tactically astute squad with a high-paced, fluid 3-4-2-1 system that's effective in transition, allows for dynamic rotations across the field and utilizes wing-backs to create and exploit overcrowded channels.
Form and key players
Japan opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup, Group F campaign with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against the Netherlands on Thursday and currently sit second in the group with 1 point on the board. Japan's squad is technically proficient and well-disciplined, they're currently unbeaten in their last 3 away games, this includes victories over 2022 World Cup runners-up England and a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their opening group game.
Daichi Kamada has already found the net in the World Cup group stage. Koki Ogawa has provided 1 assist for Japan, he's the team's most creative player and could be crucial from the wings on Thursday.
Sweden to provide a stern test
Sweden thrashed Tunisia 5-1 at home in their 2026 FIFA World Cup, Group F opener and are currently top of the group with 3 points. Graham Potter has impressed during his short time in charge of Sweden (appointed in October 2025), he's fostered a pragmatic and compact structure in the Swedish side that have thrived off their set-piece prowess and direct play.
Sweden have won 1 and lost 1 of their last 2 on the road, they're unbeaten in 4 of their last 5 in all competitions (3 wins, 1 loss, 1 draw) but their most recent away game was a disappointing 3-1 defeat to neighbours Norway.
- Viktor Gyoekeres is in top form for Sweden, he's scored 6 goals in their last 5 competitive games and could be a key player in their opener against Japan.
- Yasin Ayari leads the scoring charts with his brace against Tunisia whilst Alexander Isak has contributed 2 assists.
Technical clash in Dallas
A high-tempo, fluid Japanese side will take on a more structured and physical Swedish side at the Dallas Stadium on Thursday, this promises to be a tactical battle of chess masters.
We're supporting Japan to win this game at a slight favorite, 2.18. Japan have a better recent form than Sweden and look sharp as a team under Moriyasu's stewardship.
Sweden are well-organized and will be tough to break down so the under 2.5 goals line at 1.81 looks like the best approach for this game.
