Leeds United teammates Ao Tanaka and Gabriel Gudmundsson will both continue their FIFA World Cup journeys after Japan and Sweden played out a hard-fought 1-1 draw in their final Group F fixture at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Watched by a crowd of 70,137, the two Leeds stars went head-to-head for the first time on football's biggest stage, with the result confirming Japan's place in the last 32 as Group F runners-up behind the Netherlands, while Sweden progressed in third.
Japan broke the deadlock 11 minutes into the second half when Daizen Maeda fired his side ahead, only for Anthony Elanga to respond with an equaliser as Sweden earned a share of the spoils.
Tanaka once again produced an outstanding all-action display in the heart of Japan's midfield, completing the full 90 minutes and leading the game for touches with 93. The Leeds midfielder also completed more dribbles than any other player on the pitch (three), while recording 68 passes, creating one chance and playing seven passes into the final third.
Defensively, the 27-year-old continued to impress with three tackles, one clearance, one interception and eight recoveries, while also winning nine duels in another influential performance.
Working for BBC Sport, former Scotland international Scott Brown was full of praise for the midfielder.
"Ao Tanaka has been unbelievable. I have really enjoyed watching him. His energy and willingness to go and win the ball back, he does that part of the game really well."
Gudmundsson also enjoyed another strong outing for Sweden before being replaced in the 88th minute by Celtic's Benjamin Nygren.
The Leeds defender registered 62 touches and completed 42 passes, alongside one tackle, two blocks, three clearances, one interception and three recoveries. He also won six duels during an accomplished defensive display.
Japan now prepare for a mouth-watering last-32 tie against Brazil on Monday 29 June, while Sweden must wait to discover whether they will face France, Norway, Germany or Switzerland in the knockout stages.
