Japan’s World Cup qualifying campaign has begun with a statement of intent. In a match that laid bare China’s defensive frailties, Premier League stars Kaoru Mitoma and Wataru Endo combined for two goals as Japan’s Hajime Moriyasu secured a 7-0 victory in the third round of Asia’s 2026 World Cup preliminaries. The result was not just a numerical demolition—it was a tactical masterclass, with Japan’s midfield dictating tempo and their front line exploiting China’s reluctance to press high.
The opening half was a microcosm of the final score. Mitoma, a Premier League regular known for his clinical finishing, broke the deadlock in the 12th minute with a low drive that tested China’s goalkeeper. His second goal, a header from a corner, arrived in the 38th minute, sealing Japan’s early advantage. Endo, another Premier League veteran, added his name to the scoreboard in the 52nd minute with a sharp strike, his composure under pressure a reminder of his elite level. By halftime, China’s defense had already conceded three goals, their shape unraveling under sustained pressure.
Japan’s midfield was the engine of this performance. The ball’s movement through the center was relentless, with Moriyasu’s instructions ensuring quick transitions and relentless forward runs. China’s defensive line, often criticized for its lack of aggression, struggled to close down effectively, leaving gaps that Japan’s forwards exploited with ruthless efficiency. The final two goals, both in the second half, were the work of younger players, their composure and timing a sign of Japan’s depth.
The result has sent shockwaves through China’s footballing establishment. Fans and pundits have already begun dissecting the match, pointing to defensive lapses and a failure to adapt to Japan’s high-intensity style. For China, the task ahead is clear: if they are to challenge for a World Cup spot, their defensive organization must improve, and their midfield must regain the composure that has eluded them in recent campaigns.
With this victory, Japan has set the tone for the final stages of Asia’s qualifiers. The margin of victory is a stark reminder of the gap between the region’s top sides and the rest. For Mitoma and Endo, the goals were not just personal statements—they were a declaration of intent. As the campaign progresses, Japan’s ability to maintain this form will be the difference between another near-miss and a historic qualification bid.
