Japan's World Cup 2026 Potential: A Dark Horse in the Making?
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup expands its horizons, the stage is set for a thrilling tournament with more potential dark horses than ever before. Among the contenders, Japan stands out as a nation brimming with talent, form, and experience, making them one of the most intriguing outsiders in the competition.
In 2022, Japan's Samurai Blue made waves by defeating Germany and Spain, topping Group E, and advancing to the first knockout round. However, their journey ended in heartbreak with a round-of-16 exit to Croatia in a penalty shootout. Fast forward to the present, and Japan is gearing up for their opening game against the Netherlands, with a growing belief that this could be their most successful World Cup run yet.
The Samurai Blue's recent form is impressive, having remained unbeaten in their past nine matches against European opposition. This includes victories over England and Germany, as well as a draw with Spain, showcasing their ability to compete with some of the world's top-ranked nations. The team's success is attributed to the increasing number of players featuring regularly in Europe's top five leagues, providing them with invaluable experience and exposure to high-level competition.
Former Southampton defender Maya Yoshida, a veteran of the team, believes that the 26-man squad selected by manager Hajime Moriyasu is capable of reaching unprecedented territory. Yoshida, who captained Japan in 2022, has joined the squad as a non-playing support player, offering leadership and guidance. He sets the bar high, aiming for a quarter-final finish, a stage Japan has never reached before.
Moriyasu, the manager, shares a similar sentiment, expressing his ambition to lead Japan to World Cup glory. He stated, 'My goal is for the team to be one of the best of the best. We have raised our level little by little through our national team activity.' This confidence is well-founded, given the squad's depth and talent, including players like Daichi Kamada of Crystal Palace and Ao Tanaka of Leeds United.
Japan's qualifying campaign was nearly flawless, securing their spot as the first non-host nation to qualify for the tournament. This success is a testament to the team's collective effort and the players' determination to win the World Cup. Moriyasu highlights the significance of this achievement, noting that 19 out of 26 players in Qatar were at their first World Cup, and they have since aimed high, striving for improvement.
However, Japan's journey to the top is not without challenges. The team has faced injuries, but Moriyasu remains confident in their ability to adapt and produce their best. Yoshida's experience, combined with the exposure to top-level European competition, is a driving force behind Japan's success.
While Japan is a strong contender, they are not alone in their potential to spring a surprise. Mexico, Ecuador, Turkey, and South Korea have also been tipped as outsiders to watch. Former England striker Chris Sutton and former Scotland international Rachel Corsie have highlighted these teams' strengths and potential for success.
As the tournament unfolds, Japan's journey will be a captivating narrative, showcasing their growth, talent, and determination. With a blend of individual quality, recent form, and all-round experience, they are poised to make a significant impact on the 2026 World Cup, solidifying their status as a dark horse in the making.
