2026 IBSA Goalball World Championships Day 3: Both Men's and Women's Teams Advance as Group Leaders!

On Friday, June 12, 2026, the third day of the 2026 IBSA Goalball World Championships took place. The women's team drew 1-1 against Canada, topping the group on goal difference. The men's team defeated Poland 14-4, finishing the preliminary round with three consecutive wins. Both teams have secured spots in the knockout stage as group leaders.

The quarter-finals will be held on Saturday, June 13. The women's team will play against the USA at 16:00, and the men's team will face the USA at 20:30.

This is a crucial first match of the knockout stage as the teams aim to secure a spot for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics. Having performed well in the preliminary round, the Japan national teams are now aiming to reach the top four in both categories.

Preliminary Round Results (Day 3): Women's: Japan 1-1 Canada Men's: Japan 14-4 Poland

Comments from Women's Head Coach Tochigi: I am glad that we were able to work hard together, maintaining good offense and solid defense throughout the three matches. I expected a tough game against Canada. We managed to take the lead, and while we were eventually equalized, it was a result we could accept as a team. Our goal for the knockout stage is to reach the final and win. Please support us.

Comments from Men's Head Coach Kudo: There was some stiffness in the opening match due to the World Championships atmosphere, but we gradually found our pace and achieved three consecutive wins. In the knockout stage, I will not look too far ahead. We will focus on the quarter-final tomorrow, concentrating on each ball and each moment, and I want us to fight hard and win as a team. Your support is appreciated.