Synopsis
On March 20, Japan became the first nation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Bahrain 2-0. Goals from Kamada and Kubo secured Japan's eighth consecutive World Cup appearance, confirming their place alongside co-hosts Canada, Mexico, and the USA.Key Takeaways
- Japan is the first team to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- They defeated Bahrain with a score of 2-0.
- Goals were scored by Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo.
- This marks Japan's eighth consecutive appearance in the men’s World Cup.
- They secured an automatic spot in Group C of the Asian qualifiers.
Saitama (Japan), March 20 (NationPress) Japan has etched its name in history by becoming the first nation to achieve qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a 2-0 victory over Bahrain on Thursday. Goals from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo in the second half secured this triumph, marking Japan's eighth consecutive participation in the men’s World Cup. Japan has consistently excelled, reaching the Round of 16 in the last two World Cups. Their journey began with their first qualification in 1998, just four years before they co-hosted the tournament alongside the Republic of Korea. With three matches yet to be played, Japan has firmly established its place.
Thursday’s victory guarantees Japan one of the two automatic slots in Group C of the Asian qualifiers, confirming their position with three matches still to go. This makes Japan the first non-host nation to officially secure a place in the 2026 tournament, joining co-hosts Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will see a minimum of eight teams represented in the upcoming expanded 48-team World Cup. Japan leads the way as the first to qualify, with five additional nations having the opportunity to join them through the ongoing qualification phase, divided into three groups of six teams.
Australia is also in a favorable position in Group C to advance. Meanwhile, Group A is led by Iran, followed closely by Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates. In Group B, South Korea sits at the top, ahead of Iraq and Jordan.
The qualification process is ongoing this month, with the third round concluding in June. Following this, the fourth round will commence, featuring two groups of three teams, where the top team from each group will secure a World Cup spot.
Moreover, inter-confederation play-offs will provide one more Asian team with a final opportunity to qualify. These play-offs will include teams from Asia, Africa (CAF), South America (CONMEBOL), Oceania (OFC), and two from CONCACAF (North, Central America, and the Caribbean).
