Japan seals 2026 World Cup qualification, becomes first nation to qualify

Japan became the first country to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, after enjoying a 2-0 win over Bahrain.

Goals from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo fired Japan into the next year’s 48-team tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Crystal Palace midfielder Kamada broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, finishing coolly after latching onto Kubo’s neat reverse pass.

Kubo then sealed the qualification, as he also got on the scoresheet for the second goal. The Real Sociedad forward stroke late on, side-footing a brilliant effort in past Ebrahim Lutfallah.

Japan went nine points clear of second-placed Australia in their group, following the win over Bahrain. They will be featuring in their eighth consecutive World Cup.

Meanwhile, another Asian giant will have to wait to secure their ticket, after playing a 1-1 draw at home to Oman.