The Japan men's national football team achieved a remarkable milestone on March 20, 2025, by defeating Bahrain 2-0 at Saitama Stadium, securing their spot in the 2026 World Cup. This victory marks Japan's eighth consecutive qualification for the prestigious tournament, making it the first team globally to secure a place, excluding the co-hosts.
Entering the match ranked 15th in the world, Japan dominated Group C with a significant lead over the second-placed Australia. With 19 points accumulated from six wins and one draw, Japan needed just a victory against Bahrain, ranked 81st, to guarantee their progression in the qualifiers.
Japan adopted a '3-4-2-1' formation for the match, featuring key players Wataru Endo, Ao Tanaka, and rising stars Kaoru Mitoma and Takefusa Kubo. Despite their formidable squad, Japan struggled initially against a resilient Bahraini defense, leading to a scoreless first half as both teams clashed fiercely without conceding.
In the 9th minute, Japan thought they had taken the lead when Endo scored from a corner, but the goal was ruled out due to a handball by Ayase Ueda. Japan continued to apply pressure but went into the break without any goals, with both sides tied at 0-0.
The second half saw a change in dynamics as Japan's tactical adjustments began to pay off. In the 66th minute, a breakthrough emerged when Kamada, who had just been substituted in alongside Junya Ito, scored Japan's first goal. He was expertly assisted by Takefusa Kubo, who played a perfect through ball that Kamada coolly slotted past the Bahraini goalkeeper.
As the match drew to a close, in the 87th minute, Kubo himself found the net. He cleverly converted a corner kick with a stunning shot from a narrow angle, extending Japan's lead to 2-0 and sealing their victory. This authoritative win not only highlighted Japan's prowess but also cast a spotlight on Kubo, who delivered an outstanding performance with one goal and one assist.
Following the match, Coach Hajime Moriyasu expressed his pride in the team's performance and highlighted their journey through the qualifiers. "This victory ensures that Japan continues to showcase its strength in Asian football and achieves a remarkable milestone for consecutive World Cup appearances," Moriyasu was quoted as saying. Supported by fans in the stadium, the win echoed Japan's dominance in the region and their ambitious goals for the upcoming World Cup.
Japan's qualification for the World Cup was not only a testament to their hard work but also a reflection of increasing football standards in Asia. As they prepare for the world's biggest football stage, Japan aims for nothing short of success, bolstered by their record in the qualifiers which boasts an impressive 22 goals scored while conceding only 2.
Looking ahead, the upcoming matches are set to bolster Japan's momentum as they remain focused and determined. With three games still left in the qualifiers, the team's strategy will be to maintain their top position and further strengthen their preparations for the World Cup.
Japan's 2-0 win over Bahrain has paved the way for history, showcasing their advancement in the sport. They have set a high standard that they aim to uphold as they head into the 2026 World Cup, aiming to impress on the global stage once again.
This incredible achievement places Japan among footballing elites, joining the ranks of the host nations— the United States, Canada, and Mexico— who will automatically qualify. As the football world turns its gaze towards the forthcoming World Cup, Japan is ready to leave its mark as a strong competitor.
