Japan at World Cup 2026
Japan at the 2026 World Cup
Japan qualified by winning AFC third-round Group C, sealing their place on 20 March 2025 under Hajime Moriyasu. His tactical setup prioritises possession control and quick transitions. Netherlands will be the benchmark, but Sweden and Tunisia offer realistic opportunities for a side targeting knockout progression.
Japan in Goal Rush
📋 Full Squad (26)
Manager: Hajime Moriyasu · Formation: 3-4-2-1
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
Group Stage
Upcoming Matches
Form & Qualifying
Other Tier 3 Teams
£17m per team in Goal Rush
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Japan's 26-player squad
Hajime Moriyasu's squad is built around midfield creativity and attacking fluidity. Captain Wataru Endo anchors the engine room, while the forward line carries multiple goal-scoring options. The defence carries experience across multiple positions, structured to execute Moriyasu's flexible 3-4-2-1 system.
Japan's Group F fixtures
Japan's three Group F fixtures begin with Netherlands on 14 June at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, followed by Tunisia on 20 June at Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe and Sweden on 25 June at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.
How far can Japan go at the World Cup?
Japan's Tier 3 status and Group F draw position them as genuine contenders. Their 51-goal qualifying haul and attacking efficiency from Moriyasu's flexible 3-4-2-1 are the foundations for a deep tournament run. Netherlands will be the competitive test, but Tunisia and Sweden offer realistic opportunities if Japan maintain their qualifying form.