Japan
Key Players
Squad
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
About
Japan arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as one of the most improved teams in world football, having stunned both Germany and Spain at Qatar 2022 en route to the Round of 16. Under Hajime Moriyasu, the Samurai Blue have built on that momentum to become genuine dark horses for a deep tournament run, powered by an unprecedented number of players in Europe's top leagues. The squad features remarkable depth across Europe's finest clubs. Hiroki Ito defends for Bayern Munich, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Ko Itakura anchor the backline from Ajax, while Wataru Endo provides Premier League midfield experience from Liverpool. Takefusa Kubo has blossomed into one of La Liga's most exciting talents at Real Sociedad, and Daichi Kamada brings Premier League craft from Crystal Palace. Ao Tanaka drives the midfield engine from Leeds United. Drawn into Group F alongside the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia, Japan are genuine contenders for the second spot and potentially capable of topping the group. Their high-pressing, technically proficient style has proven effective against European heavyweights, and they possess the tactical flexibility to adapt to different opponents. With 2022's giant-killing performances as their foundation, Japan's ambition has grown to match their talent. Breaking through to the quarterfinals for the first time in history is the stated goal, and this squad has the quality and belief to achieve it. Japan are among the most dangerous unseeded teams in the tournament.
Group Stage Schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the coach of Japan at World Cup 2026?
Hajime Moriyasu is the head coach of Japan at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He led the Samurai Blue to historic victories over Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup and has continued to develop the team's European-influenced playing style.
What group is Japan in at World Cup 2026?
Japan are in Group F at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia. Japan are strong contenders for the second qualifying spot and potentially capable of topping the group.
How many World Cups has Japan played in?
Japan have appeared at seven previous FIFA World Cups (1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022), making 2026 their eighth consecutive appearance. They have reached the Round of 16 four times (2002, 2010, 2018, 2022) but have never progressed to the quarterfinals.
Did Japan beat Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup?
Yes, Japan famously defeated both Germany (2-1) and Spain (2-1) in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, topping Group E. Both victories involved come-from-behind performances, showcasing Japan's resilience and tactical intelligence. They were eventually eliminated by Croatia on penalties in the Round of 16.
Who are the key players for Japan at World Cup 2026?
Key players include Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad), Wataru Endo (Liverpool), Takehiro Tomiyasu (Ajax), Daichi Kamada (Crystal Palace), and Hiroki Ito (Bayern Munich). Japan's strength lies in having an unprecedented number of players competing in Europe's top leagues.