TOKYO — Crowds gathered across Tokyo on Friday to celebrate Japan's qualification for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the national team secured a 1-1 draw with Sweden in its final Group F match in Arlington, Texas, according to Japanese media and tournament organizers. The result ensured Japan advanced as the group's runner-up and set up a Round of 32 meeting with Brazil on Monday, tournament officials said.
Supporters watched the decisive group-stage match at public viewing events, sports bars and other venues across the Japanese capital as the game was played overnight local time because of the time difference with the United States. Broadcasters showed fans applauding and waving national flags after the final whistle confirmed Japan's progression to the knockout phase. Authorities reported no major security incidents linked to the celebrations.
Japan took the lead in the second half through Daizen Maeda before Sweden equalized minutes later with a goal from Anthony Elanga. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki preserved the draw with several late saves, allowing Japan to finish second behind the Netherlands in Group F, according to FIFA and match reports.
Head coach Hajime Moriyasu said the team's qualification reflected its continued development while stressing that attention had already shifted to the next match.
"We won't be pushovers," Moriyasu said when asked about facing Brazil in the knockout stage, according to Reuters. "We have a chance to win."
Japan has now reached the World Cup knockout stage for the fifth time, following previous appearances in 2002, 2010, 2018 and 2022, according to FIFA. The team qualified for the 2026 finals through the Asian qualifiers before advancing from Group F during the expanded 48-team tournament.
Tournament organizers said Japan will face five-time world champions Brazil in Houston on Monday in the Round of 32. Brazil advanced after winning its group, while Japan secured second place with five points following one win and two draws, according to official standings.
As of Friday, preparations were under way for Japan's knockout match, with team officials focused on recovery and training before traveling to Houston. Tournament organizers said the Round of 32 fixture remains scheduled for Monday, while celebrations in Tokyo gradually subsided following the overnight qualification.
