Stockholm, June 26, 2026 – The Europe Today: Sweden have secured a place in the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup after finishing among the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams, although their knockout-stage opponents have yet to be confirmed.
A 1-1 draw against Japan in their final group-stage match was enough to seal Sweden’s qualification. The Scandinavian side could now face Norway, France, Switzerland or Germany, depending on the outcome of the remaining group-stage fixtures.
According to tournament projections, the most likely scenario is that Sweden will play their Round of 16 match in New Jersey, with an estimated 84.1 percent probability. The final opponent, however, will be determined once all third-placed qualifiers are confirmed.
Sweden goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström said the team was prepared for any challenge regardless of the opposition.
“In a World Cup, sooner or later you face very strong teams. Whoever we play, we will be well prepared and do everything possible to give ourselves the best chance,” he said following the draw with Japan.
If the match between Paraguay and Australia ends in a draw, Sweden will no longer be able to face Germany in Boston. In that scenario, Norway or France would become the most likely opponents, with projections placing that possibility at 98.6 percent.
The final group-stage matches are scheduled to conclude on Sunday morning, after which the complete Round of 16 fixtures will be confirmed.
