Japan delivered a stunning performance, defeating Indonesia 6-0 in a crucial AFC World Cup qualifier. With fast attacks and solid teamwork, Japan dominated from start to finish, securing a massive win and taking a big step toward World Cup qualification.
Final Match of Third Round, 2026 World Cup Asian Zone
Japan Dominates, Indonesia Struggles to Keep Up
On June 10, 2025, at Suita City Stadium in Osaka, the Indonesian national football team faced a strong Japan team in the last match of the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers Asian Zone. Unfortunately, Indonesia lost heavily with a score of 0-6. This win made Samurai Blue the clear winner of Group C with 23 points from 10 games, while Indonesia ended up in fourth place with 12 points.
Despite already securing a spot in the next round, Indonesia’s large defeat was hard to accept. Japan controlled the game right from the start and scored six goals without allowing Indonesia to score any. Although this was a tough match for Indonesia, there is still hope as they prepare to improve in the fourth round.
Japan’s Goal Scorers and Game Highlights
Japan’s first goal came early in the 15th minute when Daichi Kamada scored after receiving a smart pass from Shunsuke Mito. The ball touched Indonesia’s goalkeeper Emil Audero’s hand but still went in. Japan clearly dominated possession, controlling the ball 83% of the time in the first 15 minutes.
Just three minutes later, Takefusa Kubo doubled Japan’s lead with a goal from a corner kick. Kubo easily got past the Indonesian defense to score. Before halftime, Kamada scored again in added time (45+6 minute) by tricking three defenders and placing the ball into the net.
In the second half, Japan kept their strong performance. Ryoya Morishita scored the fourth goal in the 55th minute, followed by Shuto Machino three minutes later. The final goal came from Ayase Hosoya in the 80th minute, after a good pass from Nakamura.
Indonesia’s Struggles and Team Formation
Indonesia found it hard to keep up with Japan’s fast and organized playing style. Their defense was constantly under pressure from sharp Japanese attacks. Indonesian coach Patrick Kluivert used a 3-4-3 formation with Emil Audero as goalkeeper. The defense included Mees Hilgers, Jay Idzes, and Justin Hubner, with midfielders Thom Haye and Joey Pelupessy supporting the team. Up front, Beckham Putra, Ole Romeny, and Yance Sayuri tried to create chances.
Japan’s coach Hajime Moriyasu also used a three-defender setup with Keisuke Osako as goalkeeper. His team had experienced players like Ryoya Morishita and Takefusa Kubo leading the attack, making it a tough challenge for Indonesia.
Looking Ahead for Indonesia
Even with this big loss, Indonesia still has a chance to bounce back in the next round of qualifiers. Coach Patrick Kluivert sees this defeat as a valuable lesson for the team to improve and become stronger.
Summary of Japan’s Goals
- Daichi Kamada (15th minute)
- Takefusa Kubo (18th minute)
- Daichi Kamada (45+6 minute)
- Ryoya Morishita (55th minute)
- Shuto Machino (58th minute)
- Ayase Hosoya (80th minute)
Despite the heavy defeat, the Indonesian team remains hopeful for the future as they prepare for the upcoming challenges in the World Cup qualification journey.
