Japan has booked it's place in the prestigious 2026 FIFA World Cup which will be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada after their 2-0 victory over Bahrain. Crystal Palace's midfielder Daichi Kamada (66) and Real Sociedad forward Takefusa Kubo (87) scored in Japan's victory over Bahrain.
Japan becomes the latest team to secure a spot in 2026 FIFA World Cup
Japan has become the latest team to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature a total of 48 teams as Japan became the fourth team to qualify for the World Cup apart from the host nations.
Japan has had a dream run in the AFC World Cup Qualification. The team has won six matches and have only one draw in the seven games they have played so far. They have scored 24 goals and only conceded two. They hold a nine-point and 22-goal difference advantage over second-placed Australia in 3rd round of group c.
Only two teams will qualify from the group which consists of six teams. Saudi Arabia have six points on the board as the East Asian giants (Japan) have mathematically guaranteed a place in the upcoming prestigious event.
Japan has had impressive runs in the World Cup's so far since co-hosting the event with South Korea in 2002. The team has qualified for the round of 16 in the last four editions and will be eager to continue their performances when the tournament kicks off next year on June 11.
Diogo Dalot eager to help Cristiano Ronaldo in 2026 FIFA World Cup
Manchester United's defender Diogo Dalot has given his honest opinion of helping his teammate Cristiano Ronaldo to win the iconic event. Cristiano Ronaldo is a national icon in his homeland and even helped his side claim the UEFA Euro 2016 and 2019 UEFA Nations League.
The Portugal team has never won a World Cup and will be eager to change that in the upcoming event. During a recent interview with beIN sport, Dalot discussed his and his teammates plan to help Ronaldo to win more international trophies.
Obviously, it is difficult to find more adjectives to describe Cristiano. For me, and I believe for others too, it is a huge privilege to continue having him in the national team, to share moments and to soak up the experience of his career. There is this energy of wanting to see him win big competitions for Portugal.
The love he has shown throughout his career cannot be questioned and, for us - using that as an example - it would be a beautiful story to see him win as many competitions as possible for Portugal. I believe that every player wants that, Dalot concluded.
Diogo Dalot has played for 4098 minutes across 61 games with Ronaldo at Manchester United and the National team. They only have combined for just one goal. Portugal will be facing Denmark in the quarterfinal of the UEFA Nations League at Parken on Thursday.