Jesper Karlstrom has committed three fouls across his two World Cup starts for Sweden, which is the joint-most of anyone in the squad, but he has so far escaped a caution. The midfielder picked up two yellow cards in four qualifying appearances for Sweden, with an average of 3.15 fouls per 90 in that time, which shows how he usually carries a large defensive burden for his national side.
Given the context of Group F, this is a massive game for Sweden. A victory against Japan will guarantee their progression to the knockouts, while a draw means they can only finish as high as 3rd. Karlstrom will have a huge role in midfield here, having to deal with this Japan front line, who just beat Tunisia 4-0. The Blue Samurai play fluid football, and they commit bodies forward when they attack, so Karlstrom should have his hands full.
