Japan thrash Tunisia in record World Cup win to close on knockouts

Japan secured a dominant 4-0 victory over Tunisia in Group F, significantly boosting their chances of reaching the World Cup knockout stages.

Ayase Ueda scored twice, complemented by goals from Daichi Kamada and Junya Itō, marking Japan's highest ever goal tally in a World Cup match.

Daichi Kamada opened the scoring in the fourth minute, the fastest in Japan's World Cup history, followed by Ueda's first goal in the 31st minute.

Junya Itō added a third goal for Japan in the 69th minute, with Ueda completing his brace in the 83rd minute with a masterful looping header.

The win places Japan level on points with the Netherlands in their group, while Tunisia's defeat results in their elimination from the tournament.