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If Japan are dreaming of winning the World Cup, Br...
Key takeaways
- And not just because of the easier path, on paper at least, it would have led them down come the knockout stage.
- The encounter in Arlington would ultimately see both teams share the spoils with the 1-1 draw, which was only enough for Japan to finish second as the Netherlands claimed a 3-1 victory over the Tunisians.
- After all, advancing as a second-placed team will not alter the narrative coming out of the Samurai Blue camp.
Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.
And not just because of the easier path, on paper at least, it would have led them down come the knockout stage.
Given they have spent all tournament, and even up to a year before, claiming their goal is to go all the way and win the World Cup, then matching that bold proclamation by finishing top of their group would only have been the ideal follow-up statement.
Entering their tie against Sweden at Dallas Stadium level with powerhouses Netherlands at the top of Group F, there was even a brief moment on Thursday evening where a solitary goal would have been enough to see Japan claim top spot midway through the simultaneous kickoffs.
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