How did Maeda’s goal set Japan’s momentum after half-time?

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Japan Secures Knockout Berth After Draw with Sweden

Japan will face Brazil in the World Cup's last-32 stage after a 1-1 draw with Sweden secured their progression from Group F. The match, played in front of 70,000 spectators, saw Japan finish second in the group with five points, behind the Netherlands and ahead of Sweden, who also qualified as a best third-placed team. The Netherlands concluded the group stage with seven points, having defeated Tunisia 3-1.
Maeda Opens Scoring in Second Half

The scoring was opened soon after the halftime interval when Daizen Maeda found the back of the net for Japan. This goal gave the Japanese side the lead in the 56th minute, following a pass from Ritsu Doan which allowed Maeda to bypass the advancing Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom. This breakthrough came after a first half where Japan, despite dominating possession, struggled to create significant chances against a Swedish attack featuring Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres, with their best opportunity coming from Keito Nakamura just before the break.
Sweden Quickly Equalises

Japan's lead proved to be short-lived, as Anthony Elanga responded for Sweden just six minutes later. The Newcastle winger cut inside from the right flank and scored with a left-footed shot from outside the penalty area, beating goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. This quick equaliser shifted the momentum, with Sweden subsequently applying pressure on the Japanese goal.
Late Pressure from Sweden

Following Elanga's goal, Sweden appeared to gain the upper hand, with Suzuki making a save to deny Isak. However, a subsequent hydration break momentarily interrupted Sweden's momentum, seemingly allowing Japan to regain some composure. As the match neared its conclusion, Japan showed signs of fatigue, with Sweden pushing hard for a winning goal that would have secured them direct passage to the knockout rounds. Suzuki was called into action multiple times in added minutes, saving from Elanga and then a close-range header from Isak.
Knockout Stage Pairings Confirmed

With the draw, Japan secured their position as group runners-up and are set to play Brazil in Houston. The Netherlands, as group winners, will face Morocco in Monterrey. Sweden's qualification as one of the best third-placed teams means they too will feature in the knockout stages. The group was considered competitive, with all three top teams having had opportunities to win it heading into the final matches.

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How did Maeda’s goal set Japan’s momentum after half-time?

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