Dhaka, March 19 -- It's a straightforward task for Japan's coach Hajime Moriyasu and his team this week: defeat Bahrain, and they will secure their place in the 2026 World Cup.

A victory over Bahrain at Saitama Stadium on Thursday would see Japan become the first team to qualify for the tournament alongside co-hosts the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Currently undefeated with six wins and two draws, Japan is heavily favored to secure its eighth consecutive World Cup appearance. A win would also put them at least 10 points ahead of third-place in Group C, with just three games remaining.

"Nothing is decided yet, and I believe we should prioritize how we can play to our abilities to win the game right in front of us and make sure of ...