Japan becomes first team to qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026

Japan has officially secured its place in the FIFA World Cup 2026, becoming the first team to qualify for the mega event set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

On Thursday, Japan secured its qualification by defeating Bahrain 2-0 in the qualifiers. This victory made Japan the first team from Asia to confirm its place in the World Cup.

Ritsu Doan and Kaoru Mitoma scored in the second half, ensuring their team's triumph. Three matches remain for Japan in the third qualifying round, but the team has already booked its place in the tournament.

This win also helped Japan claim the top spot in Group C of the third-round qualifiers.

The third round of Asian qualifiers features 18 teams divided into three groups. Each group's top two teams will qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Hosts USA, Canada, and Mexico have already secured their spots in the tournament.

The qualification rounds for the World Cup are currently underway across different continents, with teams competing for a spot in the expanded 48-team tournament.