Japan National Team at 2026 World Cup: Expectations and Challenges
Al Jazeera Staff
Japan, the first team outside the host to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, have beaten Germany, Brazil, England, and Spain since 2022. However, star winger Kaoru Mitoma's injury threatens their hopes of surpassing their best performance—the round of 16.
Japan's national team made its World Cup debut in 1998 and has qualified for every tournament since. Their best performance is reaching the round of 16 (2002, 2010, 2018, 2022). With the most talented squad in history, the 'Samurai Blue' aim to go further.
Japan became the first nation outside the host to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. They have recorded impressive victories over top teams such as Germany, Brazil, England, and Spain since 2022. However, the loss of star winger Kaoru Mitoma to a hamstring injury is a significant blow.
Historic Win at Wembley
In a friendly match in March 2026, Japan defeated England 1-0 at Wembley, with Mitoma scoring the goal. This was the second defeat for England manager Thomas Tuchel since taking charge. Earlier in the same international window, Japan also beat Scotland.
At the 2022 World Cup, Japan shocked the world by coming from behind to beat Spain and Germany in the group stage, finishing top of their 'group of death' before losing to Croatia in the round of 16 on penalties. Now, they are no longer a surprise, boasting a quality squad, most of whom play in Europe.
Kubo Poised to Replace Mitoma
Right winger Takefusa Kubo (24) has pledged to fill the void left by Mitoma. Kubo just had an outstanding season at Real Sociedad, helping the club win the Copa del Rey. He suffered a hamstring injury in January but has fully recovered. 'I want to carry Mitoma's emotions and give my all with a greater sense of responsibility,' Kubo said.
Solid Backbone
Under coach Hajime Moriyasu, Japan is willing to attack but also pragmatic when needed, with a tight defensive structure. Former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu (now at Ajax) has returned after nearly two years out with injury, providing solidity to the backline.
In midfield, Wataru Endo acts as the leader and ball-winner, Daichi Kamada (Crystal Palace) provides creativity, and Ao Tanaka (Leeds United) offers energy and physicality. Up front, Daizen Maeda – who can play as a left winger or center forward – just had an excellent season at Celtic with 14 goals and 6 assists in the Scottish league.
However, the lack of a top-class center forward could reduce Japan's attacking potency, especially on counter-attacks. The psychological pressure following repeated exits at the round of 16 is another hurdle for the Samurai Blue to overcome.
Japan's Group
Japan is in Group F alongside Netherlands, Tunisia, and Sweden. Their opening match against Netherlands (June 14, Dallas, USA) is expected to be the toughest test but also an opportunity to assert their ambitions. Tunisia (June 20, Monterrey, Mexico) and Sweden (June 25, Dallas, USA) are rated lower, but Japan cannot afford complacency.
Prediction
Many experts believe Japan can reach the round of 16 for the first time, but the quarterfinals are likely their ceiling.
Japan's 2026 World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers: Zion Suzuki, Keisuke Osako, Tomoki Hayakawa.
Defenders: Yuto Nagatomo, Shogo Taniguchi, Ko Itakura, Tsuyoshi Watanabe, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Hiroki Ito, Ayumu Seko, Yukinari Sugawara, Junnosuke Suzuki.
Midfielders: Wataru Endo, Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada, Ritsu Doan, Ao Tanaka, Kaishu Sano, Takefusa Kubo, Yuito Suzuki.
Forwards: Daizen Maeda, Koki Ogawa, Ayase Ueda, Keito Nakamura, Kento Shiogai, Keisuke Goto.
