Japan were the first team in the world to qualify for WC2026, sealing their spot in March 2025 with a game to spare. It is a statement of intent from a squad that is the most technically advanced in Asia and arguably one of the most underrated in the world.
Moriyasu's Japan defeated Germany and Spain in 2022 from 1-0 down — a tactical masterclass in second-half pressing. They will be confident of similar results here against top European opposition.
Key Player: Takefusa Kubo
The Real Sociedad winger has broken through to become one of La Liga's most exciting attackers. Kubo's technical quality, movement, and output in Spain have validated what Japanese fans knew for years — he is world class. At 23, this is his moment.
Tactical Setup
Moriyasu uses a fluid 4-3-3 that can shift to a 3-4-3 in pressing phases. Japan's high press is executed with more collective intelligence than almost any other team in the tournament. Their ability to switch shape mid-game against stronger sides — the 2022 comeback template — makes them genuinely dangerous.
Tournament History
Eight appearances, four Round of 16 exits. Japan have now established themselves as a serious tournament team. The next step is the quarter-final — and this squad has the quality to achieve it.