Japan has become the first team to qualify for the World Cup 2026. Japan achieved this feat by defeating Bahrain 2-0 in the match held on Thursday in Saitama.

Daichi Kamada of Crystal Palace and Takefusa Kubo of Real Sociedad scored one goal for him. Japan has qualified for the Asia Cup with three matches remaining.

As host countries, Canada, Mexico and the United States will automatically play in the World Cup. Eight teams will be able to play in the upcoming World Cup from Asia. A total of 48 teams will participate in the competition.