Japan prepares to face Sweden in the second group match of the 2026 World Cup. The Japan Football Association named a fresh starting XI. Olympic gold medallist Kensuke Noda gets the nod . Left-back Ataru Esaka and Young attacker Kyogo Furuhashi earn first tournament starts. The updated lineup made public on major sports portal .
Match coverage includes former international Keisuke Honda. Pundits expect a sturdy performance from a defence keen to bounce back after a shaky opening outing. Japan took a point with Germany in their opener. Three points now could decide their fate as each match looms large.