Japan defeats Tunisia 4-0, making its mark on the 1000th World Cup match

2026 World Cup Key News

(Central News Agency reporter Li Jian-chung, Taipei, June 21) The 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F qualifier between Japan and Tunisia took place today. This match was also the 1000th match in FIFA World Cup history. Japan won 4-0, with Ueda Ayase scoring twice, maintaining their qualification hopes for advancing from the group.

"The Samurai Blue" Japan team is a representative Asian powerhouse in the World Cup for the past 20 years, having qualified for the finals for 8 consecutive tournaments since 1998. They reached the Round of 16 in 2002, 2010, 2018, and 2022.

In their first group stage match, the Japanese team came from behind to draw with the Netherlands, a former World Cup champion, boosting the team's morale. Today against Tunisia, less than 4 minutes after the start, Nakamura Keito crossed from the left. The ball happened to hit Kamada Daichi's left foot as he made a run, deflecting into the net and giving Japan the opening goal.

In the 31st minute, Japan's offense struck again. Ueda Ayase received a pass from a teammate, dribbled solo to outside the 18-yard box, and unleashed a powerful shot, breaking the opponent's goal again. Japan led 2-0 at halftime.

In the second half, Japan's offense became noticeably more conservative, attempting to defend their lead. However, in the 69th minute, Ueda Ayase made a brilliant pass in the frontcourt, allowing teammate Ito Junya to receive the ball and break into the penalty area alone, calmly slotting the ball into the net for a 3-0 lead.

With victory in hand, Japan scored again in the 83rd minute. Sano Kaishu crossed from the right, and Ueda Ayase leaped at the goalmouth, unmarked, to head the ball. Although the power was insufficient, the direction was precise, heading towards the far post. The opposing goalkeeper could only stand in place, unable to make a save.

After the victory, Japan, with 1 win and 1 draw, has 4 points in the group stage, the same as the Netherlands. However, due to goal difference, they are temporarily in second place. Sweden is third with 1 win and 1 loss, and Tunisia is last with 0 wins and 2 losses. (Editor: Chen Ching-fang) 1150621

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