Japan
Asia's standout team with a remarkable 3.09 goals per game — the highest of any qualified nation. Japan demolished qualifying (12W-2D-1L, 51 goals scored, 3 conceded) and have become a genuine force.
Recent Form (Last 10)
Overall (Last 3 Years)
WC Qualifying
Home vs Away
Home
Away
Top Scorer (Last 3 Years)
Strengths
The most prolific team in the tournament (3.09 goals per game, 108 goals in 35 matches). Dominant qualifying campaign. Ayase Ueda (12 goals) leads a deep attacking lineup. Tactical sophistication under their coaching setup.
Weaknesses
Tournament-level opposition is different from Asian qualifying. 5 losses in 35 matches shows they can be beaten. Historic World Cup ceiling is the Round of 16.
Key Players
Ayase Ueda (12 goals), Takefusa Kubo, Ritsu Dōan, Kaoru Mitoma
Our Prediction
Will push Netherlands hard for Group F's top spot. Could surprise in the knockout rounds.
H2H vs Group Opponents
Group F Opponents
World Cup 2026 Dark Horses
Japan are StatRank™ #10. They knocked out Germany and Spain in 2022. The market has them #16.