Japan secured a dominant 4-0 victory over Tunisia on Saturday, a result that effectively eliminates the African side from the 2026 World Cup and brings the Asian giants closer to the knockout stages.

The match, which marked the 1,000th game in World Cup history, saw Ayase Ueda net a brace, with additional goals from Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito. This win places Japan level on four points with the Netherlands at the top of Group F, significantly improving their chances of advancing.

Tunisia, having suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opening match, now cannot qualify for the next round. The team's performance under new manager Herve Renard, who was appointed shortly before the tournament, was unable to counter Japan's superior technical skill and fluid passing game.

Japan took an early lead in the fourth minute through Daichi Kamada, who finished from close range following good build-up play. The team narrowly missed a second goal shortly after, with Tunisia's Dylan Bronn making a crucial goal-line clearance. Tunisia's goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen was also kept busy, making several key saves.

Ayase Ueda extended Japan's lead in the 31st minute, capitalizing on hesitant defending to score from the edge of the penalty area. The rout continued in the second half, with Junya Ito adding a third goal in the 69th minute after being played through by a precise pass. Ueda then sealed the comprehensive victory with a looping header in the 83rd minute, securing his brace and the 4-0 final score.

The result represents a challenging start for Tunisia's new manager, Herve Renard, who took over from Sabri Lamouchi after the team's initial heavy loss. Despite the change in leadership, Renard's side struggled to impose themselves against a well-organized and technically adept Japanese squad.

Japan's performance showcased their trademark smooth passing and attacking prowess. After an encouraging 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their opening fixture, this decisive win against Tunisia further solidifies their position as a strong contender in Group F.

With this second consecutive defeat, Tunisia faces an early exit from the 2026 World Cup, while Japan looks set to compete in the latter stages of the tournament.