Japan has officially secured its spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 2-0 victory over Bahrain in Saitama on Thursday.
Second-half goals from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo sealed the win, ensuring Japan’s eighth consecutive World Cup appearance.
Despite a sluggish start, Japan found its rhythm in the 66th minute when Crystal Palace forward Kamada converted a clever reverse pass from Kubo just minutes after coming on as a substitute.
Kubo later secured the victory with a left-footed strike from a tight angle in the 87th minute, sending the home crowd of nearly 60,000 into celebration.
Australia’s earlier 5-1 triumph over Indonesia had already meant that Japan only needed a draw to qualify, but Hajime Moriyasu’s side ensured they advanced in style.
The Samurai Blue have been dominant in the Asian third round of qualifiers, remaining unbeaten with five wins and one draw.
Japan fielded an experienced squad featuring Premier League stars Wataru Endo (Liverpool) and Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton). Endo nearly opened the scoring in the ninth minute, but his goal was overturned by VAR.
Bahrain threatened on the counterattack, but Japan ultimately proved too strong. Moriyasu’s tactical substitutions made the difference, with Kamada breaking the deadlock and Kubo adding the finishing touch.
At the final whistle, Japanese players celebrated on the pitch with fans, marking their latest milestone on the road to the World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
