Takefusa Kubo has recorded seven goals and 18 assists in 50 appearances for Japan. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

Japan will look to get its first win at FIFA World Cup 2026 when it takes on Tunisia in the Group F fixture at the Monterrey Stadium on Saturday.

The Blue Samurai came back twice to hold European heavyweight Netherlands to a 2-2 draw in their opening game.

Why is Takefusa Kubo not playing in Tunisia vs Japan FIFA World Cup 2026 match?

When the Japan lineup was announced for the game against Tunisia, Takefusa Kubo’s name was not included, not even on the bench.

Japan fans will hope that it is a precautionary measure by coach Hajime Moriyasu after Kubo took a knock on his knee in the 71st minute against the Netherlands and was subsequently replaced by Koki Ogawa.

Against the Netherlands, he set up Keito Nakamura for Japan’s first equaliser. Kubo’s injury would add more woes for Moriyasu, who has been left with a depleted World Cup squad without first-team regulars like Kaoru Mitoma, Wataru Endo, and Takumi Minamino.

According to reports, the 25-year-old was seen leaving the stadium in a wheelchair after the opening game.

Published on Jun 21, 2026