Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup Qualification match.
Japan dominate Group C and could mathematically secure their place at the World Cup with a win in this round. Bahrain, meanwhile, are fighting to reach the fourth round, but they stand little chance against the superior Japanese squad.
Japan
Japan have been ruthless in the qualifiers, collecting 16 points from six matches with an incredible goal difference of 22:2. Their attack has been particularly impressive, crushing China (7:0), Bahrain (5:0), and Indonesia (4:0). At home, they regularly demolish opponents, winning recent games against China, Syria, and Myanmar by margins of at least five goals. The squad is filled with Europe-based players such as Takumi Minamino (AC Monaco), Ayase Ueda (Feyenoord Rotterdam), Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad), and Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton), making them vastly superior to most teams in Asian football.
Bahrain
Bahrain have struggled throughout the qualification campaign, managing just one victory in six matches, and that came back in September last year. The team can put up a fight against weaker opponents but collapse against stronger sides. In their first meeting with Japan, they suffered a humiliating 5:0 defeat, registering just three shots on goal. The Bahraini squad lacks standout players, with most of them competing in lower-tier European leagues.
Japan vs Bahrain Prediction
Japan are overwhelming favourites and should secure another dominant victory. Bahrain were completely outclassed in the first encounter, and their away form suggests they will struggle again. We expect a comfortable win for Japan by at least three goals.
