Japan took the lead in the second half, but Sweden responded shortly afterwards when Anthony Elanga beautifully scored to make it 1–1, which was also the final score.
After the final whistle, Elanga collapsed, thinking that the World Cup was over for Sweden. What he didn't know was that one point was enough to advance.
Potter: “Oh, dear”
I shouted in English, "We can go for more. I didn't know we were through. But then I heard someone shout that one point is enough. Now we focus on the next match," says Elanga, and continues:
I just wanted to keep playing. I'm happy we played a good game, better than the one against Holland. We could have scored more goals.
National team captain Graham Potter on Elanga's miss:
That explains a lot. Oh, dear.
Fellow striker Alexander Isak thought the whole team knew about the conditions - but got a surprise.
"I know Elanga didn't know. I asked him if it was true and it was. I was surprised," says Isak.
“He looked a little angry”
Team captain Victor Nilsson Lindelöf laughs heartily when he learns that Elanga was unaware that Sweden had advanced.
"He didn't know that? Haha, he looked a little angry. But yes, then I understand," says Nilsson Lindelöf.
We had a meeting, so he probably wasn't listening. Because the union had gone through it, so I assumed everyone was aware.
Are you surprised that it was Anthony who was not aware?
No. But I know for a fact, you can fall asleep a little in meetings. Maybe he just wasn't awake enough.
Who Sweden will face in the round of 16 is still unclear.
