Japan secured its place in the 2026 men’s World Cup after a 2-0 victory over Bahrain at Saitama Stadium on Thursday.
Second-half goals from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo helped the Samurai Blue clinch their spot in next year’s tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Japan is the first nation outside of the host countries to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, with the three host nations already guaranteed a place in the 48-team competition.
After the match, Japan’s coach, Hajime Moriyasu, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thanks to the players for their efforts and the fans for their support. We knew that if we persevered, the goals would come. We will try to win our three remaining games and continue growing as a team.”
Despite dominating the first half, Japan struggled to break down Bahrain’s defense. However, in the 66th minute, Kamada, who had come off the bench earlier, scored to give Japan the lead.
With just three minutes remaining, Takefusa Kubo, who had been a constant threat on Japan’s left flank throughout the match, sealed the win by scoring from a tight angle, ensuring Japan’s victory.
The win keeps Japan’s unbeaten streak in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign intact, with 19 points from seven matches, nine points ahead of second-place Australia and 10 points ahead of third-place Saudi Arabia.
Japan’s dominant position at the top of Group C in the Asian qualifying standings guarantees their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance.
In the Asian qualification system, the top two teams from each six-team group automatically advance to the World Cup, while the third and fourth-placed teams must play in an additional round for the final two spots.
In another key match in Japan’s group, Australia strengthened its bid for a 2026 World Cup spot with a dominant 5-1 win over Indonesia in Sydney on Thursday.
In his first match as Australia’s head coach, Patrick Kluivert’s side got a boost when Indonesia’s Kevin Diks missed a penalty in the 8th minute. Australia then took the lead when Martin Boyle converted a penalty 10 minutes later.
Goals from Nishan Velupillay, Jackson Irvine, and Lewis Miller put Australia 4-0 up by the 60th minute. Although Indonesia’s Ole Romeny pulled one back, Irvine’s second goal of the match sealed the win for the Socceroos.