Japan celebrated the 1,000th match in FIFA World Cup history in style, defeating Tunisia 4-0 on Saturday to strengthen their bid for a place in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup.

Striker Ayase Ueda scored twice, while Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito also found the net as Japan secured their first victory of the tournament. The result lifted the Samurai Blue to four points from two matches, level with the Netherlands at the top of Group F.

Japan dominated proceedings from the outset, controlling possession and creating numerous chances against a Tunisian side that struggled to cope with their pace and movement. Ueda's clinical finishing helped put the game beyond doubt before Kamada and Ito added further goals to complete an emphatic victory.

According to Al Jazeera, Japan's win came in the 1,000th match in World Cup history, marking a significant milestone for the tournament as the Asian powerhouse delivered one of its most convincing performances of the competition.

The defeat ended Tunisia's hopes of reaching the knockout stage after suffering a second consecutive loss in Group F. The North African side had little answer to Japan's attacking quality and were officially eliminated from contention for the last 32.

With four points from two matches, Japan are now well placed to advance to the knockout rounds. Their final group-stage encounter against Sweden will determine whether they progress as group winners or runners-up.

BOB Post