Japan has officially secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first team to qualify after a 2-0 victory over Bahrain on Thursday. Second-half goals from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo sealed the win, ensuring their spot in next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
On a chilly night in Saitama, Group C leaders Japan struggled to find their rhythm early on. However, Crystal Palace forward Kamada broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, before Kubo added a late goal in the 87th minute to confirm their qualification.
This marks Japan’s eighth consecutive World Cup appearance.
Although Australia’s 5-1 win over Indonesia earlier in the evening meant Japan would have qualified even with a draw, Kamada’s opener ensured they clinched their spot in style, delighting a crowd of nearly 60,000.
Coach Hajime Moriyasu’s team has been in dominant form throughout the Asian qualifiers, entering the match unbeaten with five wins and one draw in the third round.
