Japan booked its place in the Round of 32 after a 1-1 draw with Sweden, which was enough to clinch second place in Group F behind Netherlands, which it also drew with on matchday one.

Ritsu Doan assisted Daizen Maeda for a sublime opening goal against Sweden, and Japan  now has the joint-most players with a direct goal involvement at this tournament, equalling Germany with 10.

Japan has also gone unbeaten against European opposition in 11 straight games, winning eight of those matches, the longest unbeaten stretch against European nations in its history, surpassing a 10-game run from May 2006 to May 2009.

Moriyasu's side is just the second Asian side to go unbeaten in five consecutive FIFA World Cup games since Korea Republic did so between 1998 and 2002, and he is proud of the way his team are representing the continent.

"We are representing Japan, but we're proud to be representing Japan towards the world," Moriyasu said.

"And of course, now we are representing Asia. I know that other Asian teams are not as successful.

"Even if we couldn't get the win, I would like us to be able to encourage other Asian teams as well, and we would like to be their hope.

"Also, if we have good competitions among Asian teams, that can get the level up."

Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki also believes Japan's unbeaten group-stage campaign will boost its confidence ahead of a tricky Round of 32 clash against Brazil.

"I think we achieved what was important – conceding the minimum, not losing, and securing at least a point," Suzuki said.

"Being able to carry this unbeaten momentum into the Brazil match next is definitely positive."

Sweden has also guaranteed its place as one of the best third-placed teams, and will face France in the next round.

"Sweden were a brave team today. And don't forget, we're a young team as well and we really fought for the draw," Anthony Elanga, who scored the equaliser against Japan, said.

"Of course, we wanted to win. But we have to remember, Japan are a good team. They have been unbeaten for a long time.

"They played really well and they're a very organised team that have played many years together.

"We've got to respect our opponents, respect them, and all we can do now is focus on the next game."