Both Sweden Japan began doubtful with poor distance shooting. After the first period, Sweden still led by 12-10. Japan then got its two-point shooting up and led by 25-20 at half time. Sweden's star Amanda Zahui had, just like the team, got a tough start to the match. She only put in one of seven shot attempts.

- They have been very tough offensively for me, but I feel we are struggling. It looks totally okay but we have to put the balls and it will come, Amanda Zahaui told SVT Sport after the first half.

Sweden had zero percent hit percentage in terms of three points in the first half.

- It feels like a preseason game and the players seem to be very nervous. You do not play together and the attack is too bad, says Elisabet Egnell, SVT Sports expert.

Tough start on qualifying

After the break, it also loosened in the three-point shooting for Japan, when they were led to a lead of 53-38 after Japan won the third period with 28-18. Sweden moved up somewhat in the fourth period - but it did not help.

Sweden lost 16-22 in the fourth period and the match 54-75. The best point in Sweden was Kalis Lloyd who scored 18 points. Amanda Zahui scored 12 points.

- She manages to scrape together decent numbers, but I don't think she takes responsibility on the pitch and takes up too little space, says Elisabeth Egnell.

The loss means a tough start to the Olympic qualification for Sweden. The next match in the group is against Canada on Saturday and the group ends on Sunday against Belgium. The two best teams in the group go to the Olympics. But it may be enough to finish third for Sweden as Japan is already ready for the Olympics.