Elanga fires Sweden into the World Cup last 32

Elanga's strike sends Sweden through

Your team is into the last 32. Japan 1–1 Sweden, and both sides go through from Group F (1) (6). Anthony Elanga scored the goal that mattered, a strike in the 62nd minute that cancelled out Daizen Maeda's opener six minutes earlier (1) (4) (8). Japan had Suzuki to thank late on, he kept Sweden from snatching the win in stoppage time (4). The result means Sweden advance as one of the best third-placed teams (7). A nervy night, but the job is done.

Norway or France waiting in the next round

The bracket is taking shape. Sweden will face either Norway or France in the round of 32 (7). That is the prize for grinding through a group that started with that 5–1 collapse against the Netherlands. The identity of the opponent hinges on results elsewhere, but either way it is a step up in class.

Fan reactions

Relief is the dominant mood on the Swedish side. Fans are already looking ahead to the round of 32 draw, with the prospect of a Nordic derby against Norway generating real buzz. The Elanga goal thread popped off, supporters know how big that finish was after the Netherlands humiliation. Read the full discussion on r/soccer