Japan secured their place at the FIFA World Cup 2026, becoming the first team to qualify alongside the co-hosts after a hard-fought victory over Bahrain.
The win extended their lead at the top of Group C to an unassailable 13 points, sealing their spot in the tournament.
The Samurai Blue faced stiff resistance from Bahrain, who were chasing qualification themselves. Japan thought they had the perfect start when Wataru Endo found the net in the ninth minute, but the goal was disallowed for a handball in the buildup. Despite relentless pressure, Japan struggled to break through Bahrain’s determined defense.
Manager Hajime Moriyasu made a decisive double substitution in the 63rd minute, bringing on Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito. The changes paid off almost immediately—just three minutes later, Ayase Ueda played in Takefusa Kubo, whose clever reverse pass sent Kamada through on goal. The midfielder calmly slotted past Ebrahim Lutfalla to give Japan the lead.
Kubo then put the result beyond doubt in the closing moments. After a short corner routine with Ito, he unleashed a powerful strike at Lutfalla’s near post, sealing Japan’s eighth consecutive World Cup appearance.
