Mexico City, June 21 (SANA) Japan secured a dominant 4–0 victory over Tunisia on Saturday at Monterrey Guadalupe Stadium, Mexico in Group F of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
The match carried historical significance as it marked the 1,000th match in the history of the FIFA World Cup.
Japan made a fast start, taking the lead in the fourth minute when Daichi Kamada finished from close range after being set up by Keito Nakamura.
Japan maintained control throughout the first half, with Tunisia struggling to cope physically and tactically. Ayase Ueda doubled Japan’s lead in the 30th minute after a quick counterattack, assisted by Ko Itakura, as Japan went into halftime 2–0 up.
Tunisia attempted to respond after the break, with Hannibal Mejbri missing a clear chance in the 49th minute. However, Japan continued to dictate the tempo and limit Tunisian attacking opportunities.
Japan extended their lead in the 69th minute when Junya Ito fired a low shot into the bottom corner past goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen, who made several saves to prevent further damage.
Ayase Ueda added a fourth in the 83rd minute, heading home from a Kaishu Sano cross to complete a comprehensive win.
The result leaves the Netherlands top of Group F on four points, ahead of Japan on goal difference with the same tally. Sweden sit third with three points, while Tunisia are bottom of the group without a point.
N.J/ABD
