Without Mitoma (hamstring injury) and captain Endo (foot injury, retired from international duty), Japan head into Group F heavily depleted. On June 26 at 18:00 CDT, Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad) must carry Japan’s attacking burden against Sweden’s devastating strike partnership of Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak.
Match Information
| Local Time | June 25, 2026 – 18:00 CDT |
| UK Time | June 26, 2026 – 00:00 BST |
| Venue | AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas, USA |
| Group | Group F – Group Stage |
Japan Team Analysis
Moriyasu’s Japan set up in a compact 5-4-1/4-2-3-1 system focused on defensive solidity and rapid counter-attacks. Takefusa Kubo is the creative hub — capable of dribbling through tight spaces and unleashing dangerous long-range efforts. Ritsu Doan (SC Freiburg) provides pace and directness on the right. New captain Ko Itakura (Borussia M’gladbach) anchors a defence that will face an aerial and physical examination like no other.
Sweden Team Analysis
Graham Potter has assembled a Sweden side with one of the most feared strike partnerships at this World Cup: Alexander Isak (Liverpool) and Viktor Gyokeres (Arsenal, Premier League champions). Gyokeres arrives in peak form after a record-breaking season. Isak, despite a difficult injury-hit club campaign, is fit and hungry to deliver. The absence of Kulusevski (injury) is Sweden’s only real concern.
Head-to-Head History
Japan and Sweden have met infrequently in official fixtures, with Sweden historically holding the advantage through superior physicality and aerial dominance. Japan’s tactical evolution over the 2020s has closed the gap considerably. This clash at the AT&T Stadium — one of the world’s largest arenas with capacity over 80,000 — will be the Blue Samurai’s biggest test yet at this tournament.
Match Prediction
| Prediction | Outcome | Assessment |
| Winner | Sweden | Overwhelming strike partnership advantage |
| Score | 1-2 | Kubo can threaten, but Sweden edge it |
| Total Goals | 3 | Both sides capable of scoring |
| Handicap | Sweden -0.5 | Swedish victory the smart bet |
Final Verdict
This is a mountain to climb for Japan. Without their two best players, facing arguably the most dangerous strike duo at the 2026 World Cup, Kubo will need to produce a masterclass to save the Samurai Blue. Sweden’s size, physicality and the clinical finishing of Gyokeres and Isak should see them through — but Japan have surprised Europe before. Set your alarm and tune in at AT&T Stadium on June 26!
FAQ
When is Japan vs Sweden at the 2026 World Cup?
The match kicks off on June 26, 2026 at 00:00 BST (18:00 CDT on June 25) at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, USA.
Are Mitoma and Endo playing in this match?
No. Kaoru Mitoma is out with a hamstring injury, and Wataru Endo was ruled out due to a foot injury and has since announced his international retirement.
Who is the favourite to win?
Sweden are firm favourites, with the Isak-Gyokeres partnership considered one of the most dangerous strike pairings at the 2026 World Cup.
What is the score prediction for Japan vs Sweden?
The predicted score is Japan 1-2 Sweden. Kubo may grab a goal, but Sweden’s firepower should prove too much for a depleted Japan side.
Where can I watch Japan vs Sweden live?
In the UK, the match is expected to be broadcast on ITV or BBC. Check your broadcaster’s schedule for confirmation.
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