Japan has called up Blackburn Rovers striker Yuki Ohashi for the first time for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Saudi Arabia and Australia. Ohashi, 28, has impressed since his summer move to Blackburn, scoring four goals in his first five games for the Championship club. His inclusion reflects Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu’s willingness to reward in-form players, regardless of age or league.
Moriyasu emphasized that Japan scouts players in leagues beyond the Premier League, including the Championship, and is focused on performance rather than age. Ohashi joins a strong contingent of Japan internationals currently playing in England, including Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton), Wataru Endo (Liverpool), Daichi Kamada (Crystal Palace), Yukinari Sugawara (Southampton), and Ao Tanaka (Leeds United).
Japan has started the final round of World Cup qualifiers in dominant fashion, with a 7-0 win over China and a 5-0 victory over Bahrain. Their upcoming matches will see them face Saudi Arabia in Jeddah on October 10 and Australia in Saitama on October 15. Australia, led by former Japan-based player Tony Popovic, will present a tough challenge, with Moriyasu acknowledging Popovic’s experience in both the A-League and European football.
These qualifiers are crucial as Japan looks to maintain its momentum on the road to the 2026 World Cup.
