# Moriyasu Pledges Japan's Commitment to Victory Against Sweden in Crucial Match

*Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu has declared his team's intent to beat Sweden and top Group F in the World Cup.*

June 25, 2026 · Sports

## At a glance

- Japan aims to beat Sweden to top Group F.
- A win secures a favorable matchup against Morocco.
- Sweden's attack is led by Premier League strikers Isak and Gyokeres.
- Japan has never advanced beyond the last 16 in previous World Cups.
- Moriyasu emphasizes the importance of playing to win.

Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu has made it clear that his team will be playing to win against Sweden in their final group match. A victory would secure Japan the top spot in Group F and a favorable matchup against Morocco instead of a challenging clash with Brazil in the last 32.

## Strategic Focus on Victory

Moriyasu emphasized that despite a draw being enough for qualification, the team's objective is to win and qualify in first place. He highlighted the advantage of playing in Monterrey, where Japan had a pre-tournament training camp and experienced the stadium atmosphere and pitch conditions.

## Challenges Ahead

Japan faces a tough challenge against Sweden, who, despite a heavy defeat by the Netherlands, possess a potent attacking threat led by Premier League strikers Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres. Moriyasu acknowledged Sweden's strength in both defense and attack, warning his team of the difficulties ahead.

## Previous World Cup Performances

Japan has reached the knockout stage of the World Cup on four previous occasions but has never advanced beyond the last 16. Their most recent attempt in 2022 ended in a penalty shootout loss to Croatia. A win against Sweden could set them on a path to break this barrier.

## Sources

- BSS

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Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/sports/moriyasu-vows-japan-will-play-to-win-and-top-group-against-sweden