Japan Football Association

First to Qualify • 8th Consecutive World Cup

Qualification Journey

Japan secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup with a decisive 2-1 victory over South Korea in a thrilling qualifier at Saitama Stadium 2002. This win not only guaranteed their place in the tournament but also solidified Japan’s status as one of the strongest teams in Asia, continuing the Samurai Blue’s impressive streak of World Cup qualifications. The victory over their regional rivals in front of a passionate 60,000-strong home crowd demonstrated Japan’s tactical maturity and competitive spirit.

The qualification campaign was marked by several key moments:

• Consistent performances throughout AFC Third Round qualifying
• Crucial victories against Australia and Saudi Arabia in high-pressure fixtures
• Impressive away form in challenging Asian venues
• Final dramatic 2-1 win against South Korea to secure qualification
• Strong defensive record throughout the qualifying process

Match Analysis: Japan 2-1 South Korea

The qualification-clinching victory over South Korea was a tactical masterpiece that showcased Japan’s evolution under Hajime Moriyasu’s guidance. Takumi Minamino opened the scoring in the 27th minute with a perfectly timed run and clinical finish, capitalizing on excellent build-up play from Kaoru Mitoma down the left flank. The Monaco midfielder’s goal sent the Saitama Stadium crowd into raptures and gave Japan the early advantage in this crucial East Asian derby.

South Korea equalized in the 55th minute through Son Heung-min’s trademark curled effort from the edge of the box, the Tottenham star demonstrating his world-class quality when his country needed him most. The goal set up a tense final half-hour where both teams pushed for the decisive goal. Japan’s winner came in the 78th minute when Daichi Kamada fired home from close range after a scramble in the box, securing the Samurai Blue’s place in the 2026 World Cup.

AFC Qualifying Excellence

Japan’s path through AFC qualifying demonstrated their consistency and tactical sophistication as they finished as runners-up in their group. Under Hajime Moriyasu’s tactical guidance, the Samurai Blue showed remarkable adaptability throughout the demanding campaign, securing crucial victories against Australia in Melbourne and a memorable 3-1 triumph over Saudi Arabia in Jeddah that highlighted their ability to perform in hostile environments.

The team’s success was built on their improved defensive stability, with the partnership of Maya Yoshida and Takehiro Tomiyasu providing solidity at the back. Japan’s midfield, anchored by Wataru Endo’s energy and work rate, controlled tempo effectively while creating opportunities for their attacking players. This balanced approach allowed Japan to compete consistently across the qualifying campaign.

Squad Development and Tactical Evolution

The current Japanese squad represents a golden generation that combines technical excellence with European experience. Captain Maya Yoshida continues to provide leadership and defensive stability, while Takumi Minamino brings creativity and goal-scoring threat from midfield positions. The emergence of Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma as a genuine wing threat has added a new dimension to Japan’s attacking play, with his pace and dribbling ability causing problems for opposing defenses.

Hajime Moriyasu’s tactical evolution has emphasized pressing intensity and quick transitions, operating primarily in a flexible 4-2-3-1 formation that allows for fluid movement between positions. The system maximizes the technical ability of players like Daichi Kamada and Takumi Minamino while providing defensive cover through Wataru Endo’s midfield presence. This approach has proven particularly effective against Asian opposition while preparing the team for higher-level competition.

Looking Ahead to 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup presents Japan with an excellent opportunity to advance beyond the Round of 16 for the first time in their World Cup history. Having reached the knockout stages in three of their last four tournaments (2002, 2010, 2018), the Samurai Blue possess the experience and quality to potentially achieve a breakthrough performance. The expanded 48-team format provides additional opportunities for advancement, while Japan’s tactical discipline positions them well for success.

Japan’s squad depth and European-based talent pool give them confidence heading into the North American tournament. The team’s experience in high-pressure situations and their ability to adapt tactically suggest they will be well-prepared for the challenges ahead. With a strong defensive foundation and creative attacking options, Japan has the tools to make a significant impact at the 2026 World Cup and potentially reach their first-ever World Cup quarterfinal.

This qualification marks Japan’s 7th appearance in the FIFA World Cup, with their best performance being the Round of 16 in 2002, 2010, and 2018. The 2026 tournament offers the Samurai Blue their best chance yet to progress beyond the Round of 16 and achieve their long-held ambition of reaching the World Cup quarterfinals.