Japan has become the first nation outside the host trio of the United States, Canada, and Mexico to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their 2-0 victory over Bahrain at Saitama Stadium confirmed what many in Asian football circles have seen coming for weeks: Japan remains a powerhouse determined to build on its growing legacy.
It’s been a remarkable journey for Samurai Blue since their first World Cup appearance in 1998. This latest qualification will be the nation’s eighth straight, underscoring their steady progress and enduring focus. Daichi Kamada’s opener broke the deadlock in the second half, and Takefusa Kubo sealed the result with a late strike. The home crowd erupted both times, relieved to see chances finally converted after a tense first period.
A fresh benchmark for the Samurai Blue
Japan’s head coach, Hajime Moriyasu, spoke after the match, saying, “Thanks to the players for their efforts and the fans for their support. We knew that if we persevered that the goals would come. We will try and win our three remaining games and grow as a team.” The performance illustrated Japan’s balanced approach, with organized defending matched by inventive attacks on the wings.
Bahrain’s coach, Dragan Talajic, offered a gracious perspective on the result. “It is not surprising that Japan has qualified, as it is a high quality team. They will achieve great results at the World Cup,” he said. And while Bahrain lacked the firepower to threaten consistently, they showed flashes of resilience, especially in the first half, when Japan struggled to find a breakthrough.
With three qualifying matches still to play, Moriyasu could opt to test new tactics and fringe players, a luxury rarely afforded in high-stakes campaigns. That breathing room is well-earned. Japan swept through most of the group, scoring 24 times and conceding just twice. Their momentum builds on a strong World Cup showing in 2022, when they made headlines by beating both Germany and Spain.
Beyond the immediate celebration, the team’s focus now shifts to how far they can push themselves come 2026. The squad features a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents poised to carry the flag in North America. Japan’s challenge will be to maintain consistency on the biggest stage, but the early qualification is a testament to how far they’ve come.
As the final whistle sounded against Bahrain, many supporters in the stadium wore broad smiles. Some recalled the country’s struggles to succeed when they first graced the global stage in France in 1998. Now, a place at soccer’s grandest tournament is secure, with plenty of time to spare.
