It was business as usual for Japan and Islamic Republic of Iran, two of the six Asian sides who were at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Japan defeated China PR 7-0 while Iran edged Kyrgyz Republic 1-0 but Korea Republic and Saudi Arabia had to be content with draws against Palestine and Indonesia respectively.

It was even worse for Australia and Qatar, who were beaten by Bahrain and United Arab Emirates - an indication that qualification will not be easy for the 2026 edition.

Indonesia, Kyrgyz Republic and Palestine made their AFC Asian Qualifiers debuts and all three held their own against much higher ranked opponents.

Indonesia came within a whisker of beating Saudi Arabia, Palestine were resolute against Korea Republic while Kyrgyz Republic - despite the 1-0 loss - didn't allow Iran to play their normal game.

With nine more matches to play, all three teams will be relishing the opportunity to further showcase their talent and determination.

It may have been an own goal that sealed victory but the magnitude of the 1-0 win against Australia cannot be underestimated as not only was it the first time Bahrain had breached the Socceroos' defence since 2006, it was their first win in six meetings.

Amazingly, it was also only Australia's second home defeat in a FIFA World Cup qualifier on home soil since 1981, adding further gloss to just what Bahrain achieved on Thursday.

China PR national team head coach Branko Ivankovic described the 7-0 defeat to Japan as his most difficult night but the East Asian side have to quickly pick themselves up for Tuesday's tie against Saudi Arabia.

It was China PR's heaviest ever defeat in a FIFA World Cup qualifier but if they can beat Saudi Arabia - one of the favourites to qualify for the 2026 Finals, it will go a long way in helping the players regain their confidence and challenge for one of the two automatic berths available in the group.

United Arab Emirates' 3-1 defeat of Qatar will have their fans dreaming of just a second appearance at the FIFA World Cup Finals and if they do go on to achieve it, head coach Paulo Bento will complete a unique hat-trick.

Having steered his native Portugal in the 2014 Finals, Bento took Korea Republic to the Round of 16 at Qatar 2022 and having started UAE's 2026 campaign in fine fashion, hopes will be high that he can do it again with the Emiratis.