Sweden's Elanga baffled by point rule after Japan draw

Swedish winger Anthony Elanga, 24, netted Sweden’s goal in the 1‑1 World Cup draw with Japan on Thursday, yet he left the pitch convinced a single point would not suffice for advancement. His confusion highlighted the fine margins of Group F, where Sweden ultimately qualified for the round of 16 as the group’s third‑placed side.

Elanga, a winger for Newcastle United, found the net for Sweden in the match that ended 1‑1 against Japan. The draw secured Sweden’s place in the knockout stage despite the stalemate.

After the final whistle, the 24‑year‑old walked onto the grass, covering his face with his hands and shaking his head in disappointment. He later admitted he believed the single point would not be enough to keep Sweden in the tournament.

Elanga told reporters, “I didn’t know one point was enough! I was just shouting: Come on, we can go for more! I didn’t know we were through.” He added that he thought the coaching staff were trying to shout the information at him.

Sweden finished third in Group F, trailing the Netherlands and Japan. The third‑place finish was sufficient to advance to the round of 16.

England’s Potter responded at the press conference, saying, “That explains a lot! I was very clear beforehand. I couldn’t have been clearer.” He laughed, noting that Elanga’s mind was elsewhere, and concluded, “I love him, but wow…”.