Image Credits: Imago Images
Alexander Isak and Sweden did enough against Japan last night to extend their World Cup stay, with the clash ending 1-1 at the Dallas Stadium.
The match itself had the feel of a knockout game long before the group stage had officially ended.
Japan struck first through Daizen Maeda early in the second half, leaving Sweden with real pressure on their shoulders, but Anthony Elanga responded just six minutes later with the equaliser that settled Swedish nerves and ultimately proved decisive.
From there, Sweden had to manage the contest carefully, and although Isak was not at his most decisive in front of goal, he remained an important focal point as Sweden pushed and battled their way over the line.
Isak had chances to make a bigger mark, but the broader story is that Sweden found the result they needed after a difficult group campaign that also included a heavy 5-1 defeat to the Netherlands.
Svenska Fans asserted he was anonymous in first half but gradually grew into the game, handing him a 3/5 rating:
“Sweden’s biggest star barely had the ball in the first half. Was invisible for long periods, made few contact with the ball and was very anonymous. In the second act he got better and had a heavy shot. Had a great header at the end of the game. Was close to becoming a hero. Chose between two and three, but finally chose third because he was quite hot at the end of the game.”
Fotbolskanelen gave the Liverpool No.9 a 2/5 and noted:
“Took defensive responsibility. Going forward, he rarely ended up in hot positions. Was close to shooting in 2-1 shortly after Sweden’s equalizer. Also close to heading in 2-1 in the final minutes.”
As things stand, Sweden have advanced to the round of 32, but their opponent is not yet confirmed.