Sweden Makes Key Changes Ahead of Crucial Group F Clash with Japan
Head coach Graham Potter has called for defensive improvements from his Sweden squad as they prepare for a crucial clash against Japan. Despite the team's recent 5-1 defeat to the Netherlands, Potter has opted to retain the same back three and two wing-backs that started that match.
The most significant alteration comes in goal, with Kristoffer Nordfeldt being replaced by Jacob Widell Zetterstrom. The Derby County goalkeeper will be earning only his fourth senior cap in this vital encounter.
Sweden will also see two changes in midfield, as Elliot Stroud and Anthony Elanga, who netted against the Dutch, step in for Benjamin Nygren and Jesper Karlstrom.
For the third consecutive match, Potter has a full complement of 15 substitutes available to utilize from the bench.
Sweden XI to Face Japan
Goalkeeper: Jacob Widell Zetterstrom
Defenders: Alexander Bernhardsson, Gustaf Lagerbielke, Isak Hien, Victor Lindelof, Gabriel Gudmundsson
Midfielders: Yasin Ayari, Elliot Stroud, Anthony Elanga
Forwards: Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres
Japan XI to Face Sweden
Japan has responded with three changes to their lineup following an impressive 4-0 victory over Tunisia. Ayumu Seko, Daizen Maeda, and Yukinari Sugawara will all start in this match.
Goalkeeper: Zion Suzuki
Defenders: Ayumu Seko, Ko Itakura, Hiroki Ito
Midfielders: Yukinari Sugawara, Daichi Kamada, Ao Tanaka, Keito Nakamura
Forwards: Ritsu Doan, Ayase Ueda, Daizen Maeda
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