Japan and the Netherlands are poised to secure spots in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they play their final Group F matches on Thursday, June 25, 2026. Both teams enter their respective games with four points, setting up a dramatic conclusion to the group stage.
Japan will face Sweden at Dallas Stadium at 7:00 p.m. ET. The Japanese team has shown strong form, drawing 2-2 with the Netherlands and defeating Tunisia 4-0. Daichi Kamada and Ayase Ueda have each scored twice in the tournament for Japan.
Sweden, with three points, is also competing for a knockout stage position. They opened their tournament with a 5-1 victory over Tunisia but then fell 1-5 to the Netherlands. Yasin Ayari has scored twice for Sweden.
The winner of the Japan vs. Sweden match will automatically qualify for the next round. Japan, currently ahead on goal differential, could also clinch the group title if they win and the Netherlands does not secure a larger margin of victory against Tunisia.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands will play Tunisia at Kansas City Stadium at the same time. The Dutch team is coming off a significant 5-1 win against Sweden, adding to their earlier 2-2 draw with Japan. Key contributors for the Netherlands include Brian Brobbey, Cody Gakpo, and Crysencio Summerville, all with two goals each.
Tunisia has been eliminated from contention after losing their first two matches, including a 0-4 defeat to Japan and a 1-5 loss to Sweden. Omar Rekik has scored Tunisia's sole goal of the tournament.
The Netherlands aims to secure the top spot in Group F. With Japan and the Netherlands currently tied on points and goal differential, the outcome of both matches could determine the final group standings. A victory for the Netherlands against Tunisia, combined with a favorable goal differential compared to Japan's result, could see them finish first in Group F.