Japan are going to the World Cup! Asian side become latest side to qualify for tournament alongside hosts USA, Canada & Mexico after win against Bahrain

Japan have officially become the first non-host side to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The Samurai Blue confirmed their presence in the prestigious tournament on Thursday evening at Saitama Stadium with a 2-0 win over Bahrain, with second-half goals from Crystal Palace's Daichi Kamada and Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo.

In seven games in the third round of the AFC World Cup Qualifiers, Japan have snatched six wins and drawn once, against Australia. The Socceroos remain second in the standings and have a four-point lead over the other teams in contention for the second qualification spot in Group C.

Japan have now qualified for the World Cup for the seventh straight time, having always made it to the World Cup since their first appearance in 1998. The Samurai Blue have now further cemented their place as the Asian team with the most World Cup appearances, only behind South Korea.

Japan will now only have the job of focusing on improving their side without the added pressure of building up a qualification bid. The World Cup is set to start on June 11, 2026.