Itakura and Japan book their place in the next round of AFC World Cup qualifiers

Ko Itakura and Japan defeated Syria 5-0 in their final group game of the second round of AFC World Cup qualifiers, booking their place in the next round.

Japan won 5-0 against Syria in their final group game of the second round of their AFC World Cup qualification campaign as they look to book their place in the United States, Canada and Mexico in 2026. Borussia defender Ko Itakura (Photo: imago images/Mutsu Kawamori) played 90 minutes for his nation, whose goals were scored by Ayase Ueda (13’), Ritsu Doan (19’), Thaer Krouma (21’ – own goal), Yuki Soma (73’ – penalty) and Takumi Minamino (85’). Japan therefore finished top of their group with six wins from six games, 24 goals scored and zero conceded. The third round of the AFC qualifiers will take place between September 2024 and June 2025, with three groups of six countries involved.

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