Monterrey, June 20 (QNA) - Japan and Tunisia will meet Sunday at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico in the second round of Group F matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the game marking the 1,000th match in the history of the World Cup finals since the tournament began in 1930.
The milestone comes during the largest edition of the tournament, which expanded to 48 teams. A record 209 national teams entered the qualifying process, compared with 13 teams in the inaugural World Cup in Uruguay in 1930.
The 2026 tournament has also increased representation across regions. Asia and Africa received 17 direct qualification places combined, in addition to two spots through the intercontinental playoffs, while the Oceania Football Confederation secured a direct qualification place for the first time.
Japan enters the match after a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in its opening game, while Tunisia is looking to recover from a 5-1 defeat by Sweden and keep its hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu said the 1,000th World Cup match carries special significance for his team and that players are eager to deliver a performance befitting the occasion.
Tunisia captain Ellyes Skhiri also highlighted the importance of being part of the milestone, saying the match holds symbolic value for the players and the national team.
Tunisia will enter the match under new coach Herve Renard, who was appointed this week to replace Sabri Lamouchi after the defeat by Sweden.
Renard said teamwork, discipline and determination would be crucial to reviving Tunisia's campaign. He added that the team must move past the previous result and approach Japan with respect rather than fear. (QNA)