Overview
The Japanese national team enters the 2026 World Cup with the greatest belief in the country's football history. After resounding victories against Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup, along with impressive performances against Brazil and England recently, the "Blue Samurai" are no longer afraid to set a world championship goal.
Under the guidance of coach Hajime Moriyasu, Japan has developed into a team capable of competing fairly with top teams. Not only defending disciplinedly, they also have enough bravery to win against the strongest opponents.
At the 2026 World Cup, Japan is in Group F with the Netherlands, Sweden and Tunisia. This is considered one of the most unpredictable groups in the tournament, but the Asian team believes they have enough quality to overcome the challenge.
Japan is likely to use the familiar 3-4-2-1 formation, although Moriyasu is also ready to adjust to the 3-1-4-2 system depending on the opponent.
Their playing style is based on high-intensity pressing ability right from the front line, with energetic players such as Takefusa Kubo, Ritsu Doan, Keito Nakamura and Junya Ito constantly putting pressure on the opponent's defense.
In attack, Ayase Ueda is the biggest hope after an explosive season with Feyenoord, where he won the Eredivisie top scorer title with 25 goals. Behind this striker is a quality midfield with Kaishu Sano, Wataru Endo and Daichi Kamada.
Although Takumi Minamino and Kaoru Mitoma could not participate due to injury, Japan still possesses a force strong enough to maintain their ambition to go deep.
Coach
Hajime Moriyasu is the chief architect for the development of Japanese football in recent years.
Since taking over the national team after the 2018 World Cup, he has gradually built a team rich in organization, harmoniously combining experience and youth. Instead of sudden changes, Moriyasu prioritizes stability, discipline and collective identity.
The 56-year-old coach believes that Japan can completely become the number one team in the world if it continues to promote traditional values and the spirit of solidarity that is the identity of this country's football.
Star
Takefusa Kubo is the most anticipated player in the Japanese squad. The Real Sociedad star possesses skillful personal technique, the ability to dribble through and create excellent opportunities. His handling in tight spaces and creative thinking help him become the center in every attacking plan of the team.
At the age of 25, Kubo is entering the peak of his career and is expected to lead Japan's attack at the World Cup.
Notable faces
Zion Suzuki is the most noteworthy name in Japan's goal.
The goalkeeper currently playing for Parma possesses an ideal physique, good reflexes and modern footwork ability. Despite experiencing a difficult period after the 2023 Asian Cup, Suzuki has matured significantly and is currently considered Moriyasu's number one choice.
At the age of 24, he is expected to become Japan's number one goalkeeper for many years to come.
The silent hero
Hiroki Ito is an important factor but is often rarely mentioned in the Japanese squad.
The Bayern Munich defender has a height of 1m88, is a left-footed player and can play both center-back and full-back. Solid defense ability and ball deployment skills from the lower line help him play an important role in Moriyasu's tactical system.
After many years playing in the Bundesliga, Ito is entering the World Cup with the position of one of the best defenders in Asia.
