Japan's national soccer team is set to face Saudi Arabia in a crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian final qualifying match this evening at Saitama Stadium 2002. Broadcast live on TV Asahi starting at 18:45, the match will also be available for streaming on TVer and DAZN.
The highly anticipated game will kick off at 19:35, with DAZN beginning its coverage at 18:30. After the match, a special edition of ‘Yabecchi Stadium LIVE’ will be streamed for free, offering fans insights and post-game discussions.
Japan's coach, Hajime Moriyasu, leads a team that recently made headlines by defeating Bahrain 2-0 on March 20, securing the fastest World Cup qualification in Japanese history. With this win, Japan has now qualified for the World Cup for the eighth consecutive time, a remarkable achievement that secures its place among the fastest in the world, excluding host nations.
In the victory over Bahrain, substitute Daichi Kamada scored the opening goal in the 66th minute after receiving a well-placed pass from Takefusa Kubo. Just moments later, Kubo himself sealed the match with a stunning left-footed goal, showcasing the talent that has dazzled soccer fans both nationally and internationally.
Captain Wataru Endo expressed his excitement after the match, stating, “Our goal is to win the World Cup, and we want to make the best start towards the World Cup in the next match against Saudi Arabia.” Kubo echoed his captain’s sentiments, stating, “Our goal is not here. We want to keep refining our skills for the next target.” This transition to a World Cup mindset has begun, emphasizing that qualifying is just the first step towards global glory.
This particular match against Saudi Arabia is particularly significant, as both teams are in a “must-win” situation. Japan aims to secure a place in the top 12 nationally recognized contenders for the next stage of the World Cup group draw, which necessitates improving their FIFA ranking. Ranked 15th currently, Japan needs victories in these final qualifying matches to gain crucial points.
On the other hand, Saudi Arabia, ranked 59th, finds itself in a challenging position, currently holding the third place in their qualifying group and needing to break into the top two to secure a spot in the World Cup. This makes their clash with Japan all the more critical.
During the lead-up to the game, 38-year-old veteran player Yuto Nagatomo, recently sidelined from the bench, was seen during broadcasts. He was previously featured at the post-match ceremony in the Bahrain game, calling out a resounding “Bravo!!” to rally the team and fans during a celebratory moment.
As the match unfolds, analyst Takehito Uchida highlights the team’s strategy, particularly praising Junya Ito, who displayed remarkable speed and agility when he was brought onto the field in the second half. Ito’s performance included a brilliant right-wing run that allowed him to create a dangerous cross. Uchida noted during the broadcast, “He’s amazing! He can get all the way to the cross from there.” This nimbleness will be vital for Japan as they push forward to secure a score.
As the first half ended in a goalless draw, both teams entered the second half needing to shift momentum to their advantage. The urgency increased as Japan made substitutions to install fresh energy on the field.
In the 19th minute of the first half, Daizen Maeda applied intense pressure on a Saudi defender, stealing the ball to advance it downfield but could not convert this opportunity into a goal. Commentator Matsuki, excited by the play, proclaimed, “Maeda, meeting in the middle!” portraying the energy and anticipation wrapped around this pivotal moment.
As the match progresses, tension builds, and both sides work hard for that crucial goal that could sway the tide in favor of either team. Fans are keenly looking forward to not just a victory but to see their respective teams solidified in a strong position heading into the final qualifying stages.
The passion surrounding this match captures the heart of soccer in Japan. As team Moriyasu continues to mold what he claims is his “strongest ever” squad, the anticipation for tonight’s showdown with Saudi Arabia promises not only thrilling soccer but a storyline woven with ambition, anxiety, and the hopes of a nation.
With upcoming matches on the horizon, including an away game against Australia on June 5 and a home match against Indonesia on June 10 at Suita City Football Stadium, Japan has every intent of solidifying their momentum in this critical period.
Fans inside the stadium and those watching from home will hope to see Japan not only secure a favorable outcome against Saudi Arabia but to do so in a manner that builds confidence towards their ultimate goal - winning the World Cup.
