Japan’s 2-0 victory over Bahrain on Thursday made them the first country to reserve a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The victory was completed by goals from Takefusa Kubo and Daichi Kamada in the second half, guaranteeing Japan’s eighth consecutive World Cup appearance.
On a cold Saitama evening, the Group C leaders got off to a slow start but ultimately settled into a groove.
Kamada of Crystal Palace broke the tie in the 66th minute, shortly after being brought on as a replacement. The 87th minute saw Kubo of Real Sociedad add a second goal to complete an outstanding display.
Before the game even started, Australia’s decisive 5-1 victory against Indonesia meant that a draw would have been enough to qualify Japan.
The approximately 60,000 supporters in attendance were thrilled, but the Samurai Blue were keen to close the deal in style.
Kamada made an instant impression after he snatched a deft reverse pass from Kubo and slipped the ball past Ebrahim Lutfalla, Bahrain’s goalie.
After that, Kubo scored a well-executed left-footed goal from a close angle to seal the victory and send the Japanese players into wild celebrations when the final whistle blew.
With five victories and one draw, Japan has dominated the Asian qualifications under coach Hajime Moriyasu.
Read Also: Rivers Crisis: Senate Convenes Behind Closed Doors on State of Emergenc
The club had a formidable lineup that included Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma and Liverpool’s Wataru Endo, both Premier League players.
Japan came close to taking the lead early in the match when Endo scored in the ninth minute, but the goal was disallowed by VAR.
Komail Al Aswad wasted a good opportunity just before halftime, but Bahrain looked dangerous on the counter as the hosts kept up the pressure.
In stoppage time, Mitoma blazed a shot over the bar, missing another fantastic opportunity. Halfway through the second half, Moriyasu brought in Kamada and Junya Ito, a decision that immediately paid off. He saw the need for new energy.
In the last moments, Kubo, who had been a continual threat, ultimately scored after forcing a superb save from Lutfalla.
In addition to securing qualification, Japan’s triumph solidified their place among Asia’s top footballing nations as they get ready for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
