Japan, a four-time Asian champion, has been drawn into a challenging group for the third round of Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team, led by coach Hajime Moriyasu, will face familiar foes such as Australia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, China, and Indonesia. With Japan’s impressive record of qualifying for the last seven World Cup tournaments, the expectations are high for Moriyasu and his squad. However, technical director Masakuni Yamamoto acknowledges the difficulties that lie ahead, especially with matches in different climates and transportation challenges.
For China, the road to the 2026 World Cup looks daunting. The team, coached by Branko Ivankovic, will have to navigate through a tough group to secure a spot in their first World Cup since 2002. Despite the tough draw, Ivankovic remains realistic about the team’s chances, knowing that they cannot underestimate any opponent in this competitive group.
Iran is aiming to qualify for their fourth consecutive World Cup and seventh in total. The team will face off against Qatar, Uzbekistan, United Arab Emirates, Kyrgyz Republic, and North Korea in Group A. With a track record of World Cup appearances in 2014, 2018, and 2022, Iran will be looking to continue their success and secure a spot in the 2026 tournament. On the other hand, Qatar, fresh off their second consecutive Asian Cup title, will be looking to qualify for the World Cup for the first time through the qualifiers.
South Korea is set to face Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Palestine, and Kuwait in Group B. The team will be considered favorites to advance from the group, but they will have to be mindful of the strong competition. Jordan, who defeated South Korea in the semi-finals of the Asian Cup earlier this year, will be looking to replicate their success in the qualifiers. Additionally, Iraq, aiming to qualify for their first World Cup since 1986, will be a team to watch out for in the group.
The Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup promise to be an exciting and challenging journey for all participating teams. With familiar rivals, strong competitors, and high stakes, the race to secure a spot in the World Cup finals in Mexico, the United States, and Canada will be fierce. As the preliminary matches kick off on September 5th, football fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating the outcomes and watching the drama unfold on the road to the prestigious tournament.
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