Japan have been sensational for almost all of 2023, so it was only fitting that they wrapped up the year with another dominant performance as they beat Syria, 5-0, in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying.

Ayase Ueda led the way with a pair of goals, while Kashiwa Reysol man Mao Hosoya scored his first national team goal as the Samurai Blue made it six points from two qualifiers to put them top of Group B.

Takefusa Kubo, who began his career at F.C.Tokyo, got things underway in the 32nd minute with a terrific strike from 20 yards.

Ueda then stretched the lead to 3-0 with a pair of goals before halftime. First, he buried a shot from close range to finish a gorgeous Samurai Blue move. Then, the Kashima Antlers product tapped home a perfect cross from Junya Ito and Japan were into the break with a three-goal lead.

Yukinari Sugawara, who came through the Nagoya Grampus academy, added a goal just after halftime with a beautiful blast from distance on a well-drilled free kick routine.

Finally, Hosoya made his mark when he took down a pass from Ito in the box, settled and finished clinically to begin his Japan account.

The win gives Japan a three-point cushion atop Group B. It puts them in a position to clinch a top two spot as soon as next qualifying window in March, which would not only put them into the next round of qualifying, but also secure a spot at the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

Before the Samurai Blue can look to more Group B action, though, they have the 2023 AFC Asian Cup. They kick off their tournament on January 14 against Vietnam, as they aim to claim the continental crown for a record fifth time.