Japan Becomes First Team To Qualify For 2026 World Cup

Japan has become the first team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 2-0 win against Bahrain on Thursday.

The victory, secured with second-half goals from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo, guarantees Japan’s place in their eighth consecutive World Cup.

Despite a slow start on a cold evening in Saitama, the Group C leaders gradually took control of the game.

Crystal Palace’s Kamada made an instant impact after coming on as a substitute, breaking the deadlock in the 66th minute. Real Sociedad’s Kubo sealed the win in the 87th minute.

Even before kickoff, Japan was in a strong position, as Australia’s 5-1 victory over Indonesia meant a draw would have been enough to qualify.

However, the Samurai Blue were determined to secure their place in style, much to the excitement of nearly 60,000 fans.

Kamada wasted no time, slotting home a clever reverse pass from Kubo to give Japan the lead.

Kubo then put the game beyond reach with a brilliant left-footed strike from a tight angle, triggering wild celebrations at the final whistle.

Under coach Hajime Moriyasu, Japan has dominated the Asian qualifiers, staying unbeaten with five wins and one draw.

The squad featured key players such as Liverpool’s Wataru Endo and Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma, adding strength to their campaign.

Japan almost took an early lead when Endo found the net in the ninth minute, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR check.

Bahrain, despite being under pressure, threatened on the counter, with Komail Al Aswad missing a promising chance before halftime.

Mitoma also came close in stoppage time but fired his shot over the bar. Recognizing the need for fresh legs, Moriyasu introduced Kamada and Junya Ito, a decision that quickly paid off.

Kubo, who had been a threat throughout the match, forced a good save from Bahrain’s goalkeeper before finally getting his goal in the final minutes.

With this victory, Japan not only secured qualification but also reaffirmed their position as one of Asia’s top football teams as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
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