Japan delivered a ruthless 0-5 away demolition of Syria in their FIFA World Cup qualification (AFC) match on November 21, 2023. The Samurai Blue were in scintillating form at the Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam, sending a clear message to the rest of Asia with this Group B masterclass. Japan scored early to settle any nerves and added a second before the half-hour mark to take complete control. The second half was a exhibition of attacking football, with Japan adding three more goals through a combination of precise passing and clinical finishing. Syria, playing at a neutral venue, were simply overwhelmed and could not cope with Japan's movement and intensity. The key focus was the sheer dominance of Japan's performance, with multiple players getting on the scoresheet. The victory sent Japan straight to the top of the group table with a superior goal difference, while Syria was left to pick up the pieces after a heavy defeat. Syria's coach acknowledged Japan's world-class level, while Japan's manager was satisfied with a perfect start.