Japan delivered a commanding performance in the 1,000th match in FIFA World Cup history, cruising to a 4-0 victory over Tunisia and keeping their hopes of reaching the second round alive. The defeat also confirmed Tunisia’s elimination from the tournament.

Playing at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico on Sunday, the Asian powerhouse dominated from the outset, with Ayase Ueda scoring twice, while Daichi Kamada and Junya Ito added one goal each.

Japan made a dream start, opening the scoring just four minutes into the match. Keito Nakamura provided the assist as Daichi Kamada finished clinically with a left-footed strike from close range.

The Samurai Blue doubled their lead in the 31st minute following a Tunisian mistake. Ayase Ueda found the net with a superb right-footed effort from outside the box, sending the ball into the bottom-left corner. Ko Itakura set up the goal after a swift counterattack.

Japan continued to control the game after the break and extended their advantage in the 69th minute. Ueda turned provider this time, threading a precise pass to Junya Ito, who broke into the penalty area before firing a right-footed shot into the bottom-right corner.

Ueda completed his brace in the 83rd minute. Meeting a well-delivered cross from Kaishu Sano, the striker headed the ball into the bottom-right corner to make it 4-0 and seal an emphatic victory.

Tunisia never looked capable of mounting a comeback after falling behind and struggled to create meaningful chances throughout the contest. Japan, meanwhile, maintained their intensity and deservedly secured a comprehensive win.

The result keeps Japan firmly in contention for a place in the knockout stage, while Tunisia’s second consecutive defeat means their World Cup campaign has come to an end.

Japan will play their final group-stage match against Sweden on June 26, while Tunisia will face the Netherlands on the same day.

MMR