Elanga sends Sweden through to the last 16

Sweden through after 1–1 draw with Japan

Sweden are into the Round of 16. A 1–1 draw against Japan on Thursday was enough, and Anthony Elanga scored the goal that sent you through (1) (3) (6) (9). The result, combined with Ecuador and Bosnia also advancing as best third-placed teams, locked Sweden into the knockout bracket.

Elanga had no clue you had qualified

Elanga did not know the goal was enough. He collapsed on the pitch, convinced Sweden were out. Potter had to tell him afterwards. "I was just screaming," Elanga said (7). Kicker reports Potter has recommended some tutoring on the group stage standings (3).

Honda accuses Sweden of working the referee

Japanese legend Keisuke Honda was not happy. He accused Sweden of influencing the referee during the match. Alexander Bernhardsson had a blunt reply: "Everyone is screaming and whining at the referee" (5).

Manchester United circling a Sweden star

A Swedish player who has impressed at this World Cup is now on Manchester United's radar, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes (8). No name yet, but the timing is no coincidence, the World Cup shop window is open.

Gothenburg to show the Round of 16 match

Gothenburg has confirmed it will screen Sweden's Round of 16 match publicly (4). No venue details yet, but the city is preparing.

Moriyasu wants Japan to lift all of Asia

Japan's manager Hajime Moriyasu spoke after the draw about representing more than just his own country. "We are proud to be representing Japan towards the world. And of course, now we are representing Asia. I know that other Asian teams are not as successful," he said, adding he hopes Japan's run encourages others (9). His team could not get the win, but the message was clear.

Fan reactions

Swedish fans online are split between relief and frustration. Several felt Sweden should have had a penalty in the match, with one Reddit thread gathering steam around a disallowed call. In r/soccer, the mood was more celebratory, Sweden's name is now locked into the knockout bracket graphics alongside Ecuador and Bosnia, and fans are already mapping out the path ahead. Some are half-jokingly asking what it would take for Sweden to declare a national holiday, after Ecuador's president did exactly that.