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.

Saudi Arabia battled to a 0-0 away draw with already qualified Japan on Tuesday to keep its fading hopes of an automatic place at the 2026 World Cup alive.

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.