Japan became the first nation to seal qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing their place in emphatic fashion with a 2-0 victory over Bahrain at Saitama Stadium on Thursday.
Second-half strikes from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo ensured Hajime Moriyasu’s side maintained their flawless march through Group C of Asia’s preliminaries, keeping them nine points clear at the summit. Kamada, introduced from the bench, broke the deadlock in the 66th minute before Kubo added gloss to the scoreline three minutes from time.
Elsewhere, Australia cemented their position in second place with a commanding 5-1 win over Indonesia in Sydney, easing Patrick Kluivert into his first game in charge of the visitors. Saudi Arabia was set to host China later on Thursday in the remaining Group C fixture.
UAE remain in contention despite setback in Tehran
The UAE’s World Cup qualification hopes took a hit with a 2-0 defeat to Iran, but Paulo Bento’s side remains firmly in the fight for a place at football’s grandest stage. Goals from Sardar Azmoun and Mohammad Mohebbi put Iran on the brink of their fourth consecutive World Cup appearance, while The Whites must now regroup for a crucial run of fixtures.
Drawn in a competitive Group A alongside reigning Asian champions Qatar, as well as Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and North Korea, the UAE’s campaign is still alive with key games ahead.
Meanwhile, in Group B, South Korea were held to a 1-1 draw by Oman at Goyang Stadium, a result that kept the Taeguk Warriors atop the standings with 15 points, while Oman remained in fourth with seven.
With only the top two teams from each group sealing automatic qualification, the battle for progression remains intense. The third and fourth-placed teams will enter a six-team playoff round, where two further direct berths are up for grabs, while a final qualification spot will be determined via an intercontinental playoff.
For Japan, the job is done. For the UAE, the mission is far from over.
(Source: Wam)
