Japan's veteran defender Yuto Nagatomo etched his name in football history on Thursday by becoming the first Asian player to appear in five FIFA World Cup editions. The 39-year-old took the field for Japan's Group F match against Sweden at Dallas Stadium in the 2026 tournament, adding to his previous appearances in 2010 (South Africa), 2014 (Brazil), 2018 (Russia), and 2022 (Qatar).
Elite Club of Five-Timers
With this milestone, Nagatomo joined an exclusive group of only 10 players worldwide who have played in five or more World Cups. The list includes Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo (six editions each), as well as Luka Modric, Luis Suarez, Manuel Neuer, Lothar Matthaus, Andres Guardado, Rafael Marquez, and Antonio Carbajal (five each).
Match Summary: Japan vs Sweden
Japan secured a 1-1 draw against Sweden in their final group-stage encounter, ensuring both teams advanced to the Round of 32. The first half was a cautious affair with few clear chances; Japan dominated possession but Sweden's defense remained compact. Injuries struck both sides: Sweden's Isak Hien and Japan's Ko Itakura were forced off before halftime. Sweden goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom made a key save to deny Keito Nakamura, keeping the score 0-0 at the break.
The second half saw immediate action. Japan broke the deadlock in the 56th minute through Daizen Maeda, who finished a slick passing move involving Yukinari Sugawara, Ritsu Doan, and Ayase Ueda. Sweden equalized just six minutes later: Anthony Elanga pounced on a loose ball, cut inside, and curled a shot past Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
Both sides made substitutions to secure the result that would send them through. Sweden threatened from late set-pieces, but Suzuki remained composed to preserve the draw. Japan finished the group stage unbeaten, while Sweden also booked their knockout spot.
