Monterrey
Ayase Ueda scored twice as Japan delivered a dominant performance to defeat Tunisia 4-0 in Group F of the FIFA World Cup, moving a step closer to reaching the knockout stage for a fourth consecutive tournament.
The match, played near Monterrey in Mexico, marked the 1,000th men’s World Cup fixture in history and saw Japan produce their highest-ever scoring performance at the global showpiece.
Japan’s emphatic victory lifted them level on four points with the Netherlands national football team, who lead the group on goal difference. The result also confirmed Tunisia’s elimination from the tournament after successive defeats.
The Samurai Blue made a dream start when Daichi Kamada opened the scoring in the fourth minute, the fastest World Cup goal in Japan’s history. Kamada calmly tapped in a low cross from Keito Nakamura to give his side an early advantage.
Japan continued to dominate possession and create chances, with Tunisia struggling to cope with the pace and movement of their opponents. Ueda doubled the lead in the 31st minute with a brilliant solo effort. The striker carried the ball forward from midfield before unleashing a powerful shot from outside the penalty area that curled into the corner of the net.
Tunisia, now under the guidance of newly appointed coach Hervé Renard, failed to mount a meaningful response despite attempts to tighten their defensive structure.
Japan added a third goal in the 69th minute when Junya Ito finished confidently after being released through on goal by Ueda’s clever flick.
Ueda completed the rout in the 83rd minute with a superb looping header, capping a memorable night for the Feyenoord striker and underlining his growing importance to the national team.
The victory guarantees Japan at least a third-place finish in the group, which could still be enough to advance. Japan will next face Sweden national football team in Dallas, while Tunisia conclude their campaign against the Netherlands in Kansas City.