Japan has taken a significant step towards securing a spot in the World Cup knockout stages by defeating Tunisia 4-0 in Group F. This victory marks the largest number of goals Japan has ever scored in a World Cup match, showcasing their prowess against Tunisia, which made history by dismissing its coach after their first game.
Goal Scorers:
- Ayase Ueda scored two goals.
- Daichi Kamada and Junya Itō each scored one goal.
These goals brought Japan alongside the Netherlands with four points, although the Dutch lead the group with a higher goal total. Tunisia’s defeat results in their elimination from the tournament. Japan is confirmed to secure at least third place in the group, potentially granting them a place in the knockout rounds.
Ayase Ueda’s decisive header sealed Japan’s fourth goal, demonstrating a spectacular performance for the Samurai Blue during the match in Guadalupe on June 20.
Image Credit: Matias Delacroix / AP Photo
In hopes of revitalizing their team, Tunisia appointed Hervé Renard, a two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner. Unfortunately, Japan’s quick and aggressive play proved overwhelming, stifling Tunisia’s ability to create scoring chances. Kamada’s goal came swiftly in the fourth minute, setting a record for Japan’s quickest goal in World Cup play. His cooperation with Keito Nakamura led to an effortless tap-in, marking Kamada’s second goal in the tournament.
In a bold play during the 31st minute, Ueda drove the ball toward the Tunisia box, bypassing potential passing opportunities. His powerful shot from outside the box stunned with precision, hitting the left corner, spreading Japan’s lead to 2-0. Ueda’s club achievements with Feyenoord had set the stage for his World Cup performance, having scored 24 goals in the Eredivisie to become the league’s top scorer.
Itō capitalized on Ueda’s flick during the 69th minute, evading Tunisia’s goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen and confidently securing Japan’s third goal. Ueda’s extraordinary looping header in the 83rd minute reinforced Japan’s dominant showing.
Japan’s unbeaten streak against European teams since 2019 continues as they prepare to face Sweden in Dallas. Concurrently, Tunisia will compete against the Netherlands in Kansas City.