The probability that the Korea men's national soccer team will reach the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America has fallen. Sweden, which is competing with Korea for a round of 32 berth as the third-place team in Group F, drew with Japan.
Japan drew 1-1 with Sweden in a Group F qualifier on the 26th (Korea time) at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. With one win and two draws, Japan reached five points and cemented second place in the group. Sweden, with one win, one draw and one loss, stayed third and secured four points with the draw against Japan.
Korea, which lost to South Africa the day before, is third in Group A. Its group-stage record is one win and two losses for three points.
According to the Athletic's "third-place tracker," the probability of advancing to the round of 32 was 94% as of the day before, but it dropped to 82% after Sweden drew with Japan.
Meanwhile, Japan, which locked up second in Group F, will face Brazil, a strong title favorite, in the round of 32. Brazil is the most successful team in history, having lifted the World Cup five times.