Sweden defender suffers suspected hamstring injury against Japan at FIFA World Cup 2026

The first half between Sweden and Japan witnessed two major substitutions.

Sweden are currently playing against Japan at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, in an action-packed clash. The fixture is crucial for both sides because it will determine the nations’ finishing positions in Group F of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In the first half, both sides have had a fair contest of nip and tuck with each other. Both teams have come close to scoring on a couple of occasions, but the deadlock remains unbroken.

Swedish goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom, who only has four caps for the national team, has also made a few good saves in the key clash. Derby County’s Zetterstrom was named in the playing XI of Blågult after Kristopher Nordfeldt conceded five goals against the Netherlands during the side’s last game.

However, a few concern points have also come up in the competitive first half. Two important players, from each team, have been substituted for the first time due to injury concerns.

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Isak Hein subbed off with a potential hamstring injury at the FIFA World Cup

Isak Hein, who received a yellow card in the 32nd minute, was seen limping and lying down in pain after an attack by Japan. Jacob Widell Zetterstrom waved towards the sidelines and called medical staff to look into the issue.

Hein was soon forced to be substituted out of the game, as two physios initially carried him off the pitch. The 27-year-old was unable to walk and was visibly in pain. At first glance, it seemed like a potential hamstring injury. However, the extent of the injury remains unknown. Hein’s fitness update will be revealed after the game.

Lucas Bergvall was introduced as Isak Hein’s replacement, and Victor Lindelof was pushed back from midfield to defence.

Japan’s substitution of Ko Itakura, the Samurai Blue captain, raises eyebrows. The 29-year-old did not show any visible signs of injury. Shoga Taniguchi was introduced at the Japanese captain’s place in the line-up. However, the reason for the substitution remains unclear.

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