Japan secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Indonesia in their World Cup 2026 qualifying match on Friday, solidifying their lead in Group C and edging closer to their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance. Despite a few early scares from Indonesia in front of a packed crowd of over 70,000 in Jakarta, the Japanese team eventually dismantled the hosts, who featured several European-born players.
The breakthrough came in the 35th minute when Crystal Palace's Daichi Kamada sliced past a defender and sent a low cross into the box. In a desperate attempt to clear, Indonesia's Justin Hubner inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, giving Japan the lead. Just five minutes later, Takumi Minamino of AS Monaco doubled the advantage with a precise low shot that ricocheted off the left post and into the net, showcasing Japan's clinical finishing.
Japan continued to dominate in the second half, with Sporting Lisbon's Hidemasa Morita pouncing on an error by Indonesian goalkeeper Maarten Paes to extend the lead. Substitute Yukinari Sugawara then sealed the victory with a powerful strike, leaving Indonesia with no chance of a comeback. The win puts Japan seven points clear at the top of the group, making their qualification for the World Cup almost certain barring an unforeseen collapse.
With three matches left in the third round of Asian qualifying, Japan's next game against China could virtually secure their spot in the World Cup if they manage another win. Meanwhile, Indonesia, now at the bottom of the group, will face Saudi Arabia in a crucial match as they battle for a top-four finish to keep their qualifying hopes alive. Despite some early missed opportunities, including a clear chance from Ragnar Oratmangoen, Indonesia was unable to capitalize, ultimately succumbing to Japan's superior play.
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