Japan has become the first non-host nation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a decisive 2-0 victory over Bahrain in the Asian qualifiers at Saitama Stadium.
Ranked 15th in the world, Japan will make its eighth consecutive appearance at the World Cup, maintaining its perfect streak since debuting in 1998. With three qualifying matches still to play, the team secured its place in record time — the fastest qualification in its history.
Dominating Asia Group C, Japan has racked up six wins and one draw, earning 19 points to top the table with ease.
Under the leadership of coach Hajime Moriyasu, 56, the squad is aiming to surpass its previous best performance. At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Japan reached the round of 16 before being eliminated. With the 2026 tournament to be cohosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, hopes are high for Japan to advance beyond the round of 16 and reach the quarterfinals for the first time in history.
The early qualification reflects Japan’s rising profile in global football and its consistent dominance in the Asian confederation.
