Japan Poised to Become First Non-Host to Qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup

A win against Bahrain in Saitama on Thursday would secure Japan's spot, while South Korea is also close to qualification despite injury setbacks.

Japan leads Group C with an undefeated record, scoring 22 goals and conceding only twice in six matches, and needs a win against Bahrain to secure qualification.
Coach Hajime Moriyasu has emphasized focus on the immediate task, with a full-strength squad featuring Europe-based players like Wataru Endo and Kaoru Mitoma.
Bahrain's coach Dragan Talajić has expressed confidence in delaying Japan's qualification, citing his team's motivation and past successes during Ramadan.
South Korea, leading Group B, can secure qualification with wins over Oman and Jordan but faces challenges due to the absence of key defender Kim Min-jae.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, with co-hosts United States, Canada, and Mexico already qualified.