Tanaka beats Gudmundsson in the Japan vs Sweden national team match at the World Cup

Ao Tanaka performed brilliantly in Japan's World Cup match against Sweden which was held in Dallas. Tanaka's performance made many people wonder why he was not played in Japan's opening match. The Leeds United midfielder plays an important role in everything Japan does on the pitch. After not playing in the opening match against the Netherlands, Tanaka was introduced against Tunisia and continued to start in the 1–1 draw against Sweden. His colleague at Leeds, Gabriel Gudmundsson, was Tanaka's opponent in this match. This match was a highlight for Leeds fans because it brought together two club players on the world stage.

Coach Graham Potter placed Gudmundsson in an unusual defensive role. Usually, this 27 year old player plays as a wing-back or full-back at Elland Road, but this time he was placed on the left side in a back-three formation. Gudmundsson looks ill-prepared for this game, having missed the final four games of last season. Japanese striker Daizen Maeda looked too quick and sharp for him in the unfamiliar centre-back role.

Instead, Tanaka set the tempo of the game as if he was ready to face Brazil in the last 32 on Monday. Leeds previously tried to sign Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, but Tanaka reminded everyone in West Yorkshire of what they have. If Leeds do manage to land Charles, one of the big questions will be how they ensure the 22-year-old gets enough game time to develop. Tanaka will be one of his competitors for playing minutes.

Tanaka, who is 27, started the final nine games of last season but only started five of 29 Premier League games between September and March. In Daniel Farke's view, Tanaka is not completely an irreplaceable player. His contract expires in 2028, and he was bought at a cheap price from Fortuna Dusseldorf. Tanaka will turn 28 in September, and he has no shortage of admirers, according to a club source who spoke anonymously to protect relations. While many Leeds fans may be uncomfortable with transfer rumors regarding Tanaka, they should expect that they will increase if he continues to play like this. Farke and the club may be determined to keep him, but offers will surely come and they will have to carefully consider his role in an ever-improving squad.

Sweden, who failed to win in six qualifying matches and reached the tournament via the play-offs, did not pose the toughest challenge at the World Cup although they did beat Tunisia 5-1 in their opener. However, Tanaka can only master what is in front of his eyes. He was dynamic and difficult to press, registering a match-high three dribbles. Tanaka also had 93 touches, three big tackles, eight ball recoveries and nine duels won, all best in the match.

Tanaka played as the deepest midfielder in Japan's 3-4-2-1 formation, often dropping into the back line to collect the ball before initiating attacks. This combination of strong tackling and progressive passing is what Leeds fans are starting to like. In the 79th minute, after making an ill-advised pass, BBC commentator Chris Sutton noted how rare it was for Tanaka to make such a mistake.

The first half was characterized by more tackles. In the 17th minute, he waved his finger at referee Ivan Barton after being penalized for a tackle on Yasin Ayari. The incident occurred on Swedish soil and may be permitted in the Premier League, prompting the attack. In the 32nd minute, there was a fierce battle with Alexander Bernhardsson on the edge of the Japanese area, which Tanaka won and then sparked a counterattack. This match seemed to make Tanaka a figure who was always present for his team.

Japan may, understandably, be the second favored team in the World Cup. They have no egos, and are a well-drilled team, as shown by Maeda's incredible goal. When they face Brazil on Monday, betting against them — and Tanaka — is a big risk.