Japan
Japan at World Cup 2026
Japan (Samurai Blue) are drawn into Group F at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first edition of the men's tournament with 48 teams. The competition runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
With a current FIFA ranking of #18, Japan look to improve on their best finish: R16 (2002, 2010, 2018, 2022). Watch Kaoru Mitoma as the player to watch in this campaign.
Group F opponents
Japan face three group-stage opponents in the race for the top two spots (and a possible 3rd-place wildcard slot) in the Round of 32:
How Japan qualifies for the knockout round
In the new 48-team format, two teams from each of the 12 groups automatically advance to the Round of 32. The eight best third-place finishers across all groups also advance as wildcards. Japan need to finish top 2 of Group F to lock a guaranteed spot — or land 3rd with strong points and goal difference.
Will Japan go all the way?
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