Victory Over Bahrain Confirms Qualification
Japan has officially booked its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first team outside of host nations USA, Canada, and Mexico to qualify. The Samurai Blue sealed their spot with a 2-0 victory over Bahrain, securing qualification with three matches to spare.
Takefusa Kubo was instrumental in the win, assisting Daichi Kamada for the opening goal and scoring the second himself. With this result, Japan dominates Group C with 19 points, remaining unbeaten with six wins and one draw.
Australia Stays in the Race
Australia holds second place in Group C with 10 points after an impressive 5-1 victory over Indonesia. Martin Boyle opened the scoring with an 18th-minute penalty, followed by goals from Nishan Velupillay, Lewis Miller, and a double from Jackson Irvine.
Indonesia had an early chance to take the lead in the 8th minute through a penalty by Kevin Diks, but his miss allowed Australia to take full control of the match.
South Korea Holds Firm in Group B
Meanwhile, South Korea remains atop Group B with 15 points after a 1-1 draw against Oman. Hwang Hee-Chan netted for South Korea with an assist from Kang-In Lee, while Ali Al Busaidi equalized for Oman.
With Japan’s dominant performance, the team continues to showcase its strength in Asian football and will be a key contender at the 2026 World Cup.
