The 2026 World Cup will have a record 48 teams, and Japan became the first nation excluding the three hosts to secure a spot. Other teams could follow in the current international window. Next year's tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada kicks off on June 11 and the final will take place on July 19.

Japan is coming to North America, and maybe Houston. The Blue Samari defeated Bahrain at Saitama Stadium in Saitama, Japan, on Thursday to book the team's spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It is the first country outside of the three host nations — the U.

SAITAMA, Japan -- Given Japan have booked their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it may seem like there is little for them to play in the their final three games in the third round of Asian qualifiers -- starting with Tuesday's meeting with Saudi Arabia.