Japan have become the first team to qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ after beating Uzbekistan 1-0 in an Asian Zone Group 1 qualifier.

Shinji Okazaki struck the only goal early in the game to secure Japan's place at their fourth finals. The Blue Samurai were also the first team through to the 2006 tournament in Germany.

Japan will be joined by Australia if the Socceroos avoid defeat by Qatar in Doha later today.