Japan are the most reliable footballing nation in Asia. Since qualifying for their first World Cup in 1998 they have not missed a single tournament – and each campaign has built on the last under Hajime Moriyasu, who has been in charge since 2018.
The Samurai Blue are tactically disciplined, technically gifted and capable of beating anyone on their day. Their goal is simple – reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.
How they got there
Japan became the first nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup – sealing their place on 20 March 2025 with a 2-0 win over Bahrain at Saitama Stadium with three matches to spare.
They topped AFC Group C with 23 points from ten matches – conceding just three goals throughout the entire campaign. Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo finished as Japan’s joint top scorers in qualifying with four goals each.
Best ever World Cup finish
Japan have reached the Round of 16 on four occasions – in 2002, 2010, 2018 and 2022. Their 2022 campaign in Qatar remains their most celebrated – stunning Germany 2-1 and Spain 2-1 in the group stage before losing to Croatia on penalties in the Round of 16.
The quarter-finals remain the barrier Moriyasu is determined to break through in North America.
Iconic moments
Japan’s victories over Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup shocked the football world. Both matches followed the same pattern – Japan fell behind before coming back to win with late substitutes turning the game.
The results announced a new generation of Japanese talent and remain the most celebrated moments in the Samurai Blue’s World Cup history.
Players to watch
Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad) – The 25-year-old is Japan’s most creative attacking threat – a La Masia graduate who scored the qualifying clincher against Bahrain and brings elite technical quality and unpredictability to Moriyasu’s attack. His ability to cut inside or drive in behind defences makes him Japan’s most dangerous weapon.
Wataru Endo (Liverpool) – The 33-year-old captain is the heartbeat of Japan’s midfield. Known as the Duel King for his tireless defensive work, Endo provides the stability that allows Japan’s attacking players to express themselves. A Premier League title winner with Liverpool in 2024-25.
Fixtures
14 Jun: Netherlands vs Japan – AT&T Stadium, Arlington – 22:00 SAST
21 Jun: Tunisia vs Japan – Estadio BBVA, Monterrey – 06:00 SAST
26 Jun: Japan vs Sweden – AT&T Stadium, Arlington – 01:00 SAST
Photo: REUTERS/Issei Kato
