Sweden have reached the World Cup 2026 knockout stage for the eighth time in their history after a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Japan. Goalscorer Anthony Elanga, a familiar face from the Premier League, made the stunning admission that he had no idea a single point was enough to send the Blue and Yellow through. A Scandinavian side England fans will want to keep a close eye on as the knockout bracket takes shape.
Elanga the hero who ‘didn’t know’
Anthony Elanga was the man of the moment, firing home the equaliser that sealed Sweden’s qualification. Yet the winger admitted afterwards that he was completely unaware a draw was sufficient to secure a place in the round of 32. “I didn’t know,” he confessed, still surprised by the weight of his strike.
In a cagey, rhythmless first half, neither side could break the deadlock. The contest only exploded into life after the interval, with Japan edging ahead before Elanga levelled to hand Sweden the point that mattered.
A side England must watch
For Thomas Tuchel’s England, this gritty Sweden outfit becomes one to study. Capable of holding Japan and qualifying without panic, the Scandinavians boast sharp individuals like Elanga, lethal on the break and well known to Premier League defenders.
Should the bracket throw England and Sweden together in the knockouts, the Three Lions will need to respect this pragmatic, defensively solid team that can punish in a flash — exactly as Elanga’s decisive equaliser against Japan proved.
FAQ
Why are Sweden through to the knockouts?
Sweden reached the round of 32 thanks to their 1-1 draw with Japan, with a single point enough to secure qualification. It is their eighth time reaching the knockout stage.
Who scored Sweden’s goal?
Anthony Elanga netted the second-half equaliser, the decisive goal that secured Sweden’s qualification.
What did Elanga say after the match?
Elanga admitted he didn’t know a draw was enough to send Sweden through: ‘I didn’t know,’ he confessed after the game.
Could England face Sweden?
Depending on the knockout bracket, a meeting is possible. Sweden, solid and opportunistic, would be a tricky opponent for England.
How did the Japan v Sweden match unfold?
After a cagey, goalless first half, the game came alive after the break. Japan went ahead before Elanga equalised, sealing the 1-1 draw and Sweden’s qualification.
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