Japan's World Cup Ambitions: Can the Samurai Blue Challenge for Glory in 2026?

Asia's World Cup Landscape Transformed

With FIFA expanding the World Cup to 48 teams, Asia now has 8.5 spots available, creating new opportunities for emerging nations. While traditional powerhouses like Japan and Iran have already secured their tickets to North America 2026, the qualification race is delivering dramatic twists across the continent.

Japan: Asia's Standard Bearers

Japan became the first team (excluding hosts) to qualify for 2026 after defeating Bahrain 2-0. Under Hajime Moriyasu's bold 3-4-2-1 system, the Samurai Blue are fielding an unprecedented array of attacking talent:

• Wingbacks Kaoru Mitoma and Ritsu Doan providing width
• Creative sparks Takefusa Kubo and Takumi Minamino in advanced roles
• Europe-based players like Daichi Kamada struggling to make the XI

Despite their depth, Japan's 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia showed they can struggle against disciplined defenses. Their 2050 World Cup-winning ambition might be tested sooner than expected.

Australia's Rising Star: Jackson Irvine

The 32-year-old St. Pauli captain has become the Socceroos' talisman:

• Scored 3 goals in March qualifiers against Indonesia and China
• Evolving his game in the Bundesliga under Tony Popovic
• Emerging as Australia's most influential player since Tim Cahill

Australia needs just a point against Saudi Arabia in June to secure qualification.

South Korea's Struggles Continue

Despite topping Group B, concerns grow about:

• Son Heung-min's poor form continuing from Tottenham
• Over-reliance on the captain as a central striker
• Lack of secondary creative options beyond Lee Kang-in

Their 1-1 draws with Oman and Jordan have kept the group wide open.

Qualification Drama Across Asia

• Iran: Qualified despite Mehdi Taremi's late equalizer saving Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan: Emerging force nearing historic first World Cup appearance
• Qatar: Asian champions in danger after shock loss to Kyrgyz Republic
• Indonesia: Patrick Kluivert's turbulent start with controversial win over Bahrain

The June international window promises more drama as nations fight for the remaining spots.

Key Takeaways

1. Japan have the squad depth to make a deep 2026 run but need more tactical flexibility
2. Australia's Jackson Irvine is developing into a complete modern midfielder
3. South Korea must find solutions beyond Son Heung-min
4. Uzbekistan representing Asia's new generation of football nations
5. Expanded format creating unexpected contenders across the continent