Japan continued their flawless run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup AFC qualifiers third round with a 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah on Thursday. This win keeps Japan at the top of Group C with nine points, moving five points clear, while Saudi Arabia drops to third, trailing Australia on goal difference after Australia’s come-from-behind 3-1 win over China earlier in the day.
Daichi Kamada opened the scoring in the 14th minute, converting a well-worked play involving Ritsu Doan and Kaoru Mitoma. Mitoma’s flick from the left side of the penalty area set up Hidemasa Morita, who headed the ball into Kamada’s path, allowing the Crystal Palace man to score from close range.
Roberto Mancini’s Saudi Arabia tried to mount a comeback with Salem Al Dawsari testing the Japanese defense early. However, Japan’s backline, led by Koki Machida, Hidemasa Morita, and Wataru Endo, held firm. Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made several key saves, including a spectacular one from Saud Abdulhamid’s driven shot just before halftime.
In the second half, Japan absorbed Saudi pressure and struck a decisive blow in the 81st minute. Koki Ogawa, a substitute, powered a header into the bottom corner from a corner delivered by Junya Ito, sealing the win and cementing Japan’s position at the summit of Group C.