Japan has secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Bahrain 2-0 on Thursday at Saitama Stadium.
This victory makes them the first team to qualify for the tournament, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Midfielder Daichi Kamada and playmaker Takefusa Kubo scored in the second half to seal the win for Japan.
Crystal Palace midfielder Kamada was introduced in the 63rd minute, and just three minutes later, he put Japan ahead.
The goal came from a well-worked move that began with defender Hiroki Ito passing to Ayase Ueda, who then found Kubo. Kubo assisted Kamada, who made no mistake in finishing.
Japan doubled their lead in the 87th minute when Kubo beat Bahrain’s goalkeeper, Ebrahim Lutfallah, at the near post.
With this win, Japan remains at the top of Group C in the Asian qualifiers and has secured a top-two finish, guaranteeing their eighth consecutive appearance at the World Cup.
Japan’s head coach, Hajime Moriyasu, praised his players for their determination and teamwork.
“We knew Bahrain would be tough, but we stayed patient and took our chances. The team played with great spirit, and I am proud of them,” Moriyasu said.
In another Group C match, Australia boosted their qualification hopes with a 5-1 win over Indonesia.
Despite an early scare when Indonesia’s Kevin Diks hit the post with a penalty, Australia took control of the match. Martin Boyle opened the scoring with a penalty, while Jackson Irvine scored twice. Nishan Velupillay and Lewis Miller also found the net for the Socceroos.
With this result, Australia remains second in the group, nine points behind Japan.
As the qualifiers continue, more teams will be hoping to join Japan at the 2026 World Cup.
