Japan World Cup 2026: Squad, Fixtures, Results & History
Japan are competing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, in Group C alongside Germany, South Korea, Uzbekistan. Here is everything you need to know about Japan’s 2026 World Cup campaign.
Japan World Cup 2026: Key Facts
| Confederation | AFC |
| FIFA Ranking | #17 |
| Group | Group C |
| Group Opponents | Germany, South Korea, Uzbekistan |
| Head Coach | Hajime Moriyasu |
| Star Player | Takefusa Kubo |
| World Cup Appearances | 8 |
| Best Result | Round of 16 (multiple times) |
Japan 2026 World Cup Squad
Japan named their 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup on June 2, 2026.
Goalkeepers: Shuichi Gonda, Zion Suzuki, Kosei Tani
Defenders: Hiroki Sakai, Ko Itakura, Shogo Taniguchi, Yuto Nagatomo, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Miki Yamane
Midfielders: Wataru Endo, Hidemasa Morita, Ritsu Doan, Kaoru Mitoma, Takefusa Kubo
Forwards: Ayase Ueda, Daichi Kamada, Junya Ito, Takumi Minamino, Ao Tanaka
Japan World Cup 2026 Fixtures
| Date | Match | Result |
|---|---|---|
| June 12 | Japan vs Germany | TBC |
| June 17 | Japan vs South Korea | TBC |
| June 22 | Japan vs Uzbekistan | TBC |
Key Players to Watch
Takefusa Kubo
The Real Sociedad winger is the most exciting Japanese player of his generation. His close control, dribbling and direct style of play make him a dangerous attacker who can hurt any defence in the world.
Kaoru Mitoma
The Brighton winger is one of the most exciting players in the Premier League. His pace, creativity and ability to deliver final balls make him a constant threat and one of the best Japanese players currently playing in Europe.
Wataru Endo
The Liverpool defensive midfielder is Japan’s most important player in the centre of the pitch. His ability to win the ball, protect the defence and transition quickly is crucial to Japan’s organised and hard-working style of play.
Japan World Cup History
Japan have been a consistent presence at the World Cup since 1998, qualifying for every tournament since. Their best performances have come in 2002 when they co-hosted the tournament and reached the Round of 16, and in 2022 in Qatar where they pulled off famous upsets over Germany and Spain before losing to Croatia on penalties.
How Did Japan Qualify for World Cup 2026?
Japan qualified through AFC Asian qualifying, winning their group impressively. They have become the strongest team in Asian football and consistently punch above their weight against European and South American opposition.
Japan World Cup 2026 Prediction
Japan are one of the most dangerous teams in their group. After defeating Germany and Spain at the 2022 World Cup, no team should underestimate them. With Kubo, Mitoma and Kamada they have genuine attacking quality to cause upsets against bigger nations.
Follow this page for live match updates, results and news on Japan at World Cup 2026. Last updated: June 6, 2026.
