Japan’s World Cup 2026 team preview: Players to watch, group, squad
Summary
Japan's national soccer team, known as the Samurai Blue, has qualified early for the 2026 World Cup and is considered one of their strongest teams ever. Despite losing star player Kaoru Mitoma to injury, they have talented players like Takefusa Kubo ready to step up, and they recently won against England in a friendly match.Key Facts
- Japan has participated in every World Cup since 1998 and reached the last 16 four times.
- Their top goal scorer in World Cups is Keisuke Honda with 4 goals.
- Yuto Nagatomo holds the record for most World Cup appearances for Japan with 15 games.
- The Samurai Blue are ranked 18th by FIFA and will play in Group stages against the Netherlands, Tunisia, and Sweden in the 2026 World Cup.
- Japan beat strong teams like Germany, Brazil, England, and Spain since 2022.
- Star player Kaoru Mitoma is out of the 2026 World Cup due to a hamstring injury.
- Takefusa Kubo, who plays for Real Sociedad, will take a bigger role in Mitoma’s absence.
- The team has a mix of attacking talent and defensive strength, with players in European clubs providing experience.
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