The latest chapter of the Blue Lock manga delivered intense action as the Japan U-20 team launched a powerful second-half attack against France. After illustrator Yusuke Nomura faced health issues, Chapter 340 was split into two parts, with the first half releasing last week and the conclusion arriving now. The second part of Chapter 340, titled “No Guard (Part 2),” continues the high-stakes World Cup match where Japan is fighting to overcome the defending champions.
The previous part ended on a major cliffhanger with Barou Shoei joining the attack. Now, Part 2 brings another game-changing moment as Kunigami Rensuke finally steps onto the field, giving Japan a much-needed spark against the French squad led by Julian Loki.
Kunigami Rensuke Joins the Battle as Japan Shifts Tactics
The second half of the Japan vs. France match has been all about aggression. After Jinpachi Ego decided to move away from a system centered entirely on Isagi Yoichi, the coach introduced a new formation featuring three powerful forwards: Barou, Shidou, and Kunigami. This trio, known for their physical strength and selfish playing styles, was brought in to break France’s defensive control.
According to spoiler summaries from the chapter, the action picks up with Japan maintaining its counter-attack. After Barou receives a pass from Isagi—who called him a “hungry lion”—the attack continues to build. But France, led by the young prodigy Loki, is not easy to break down. Loki reads Japan’s movements and prepares to shut down their offensive push.
Just when it seems France might regain control, Kunigami enters the scene. The “hero” of the Blue Lock project makes his presence known by joining the counter-attack, giving Japan a fresh option and forcing the French defense to spread their attention across multiple threats.
“Kunigami arrives as Japan’s counter-attack ignites against France,” summarizing the key turning point in the chapter’s second half.
France Strikes Back: Traore Shines for the Defending Champions
Before Kunigami’s arrival, France shows why they are the tournament favorites. A new French player, Traore, takes center stage during the match’s most critical moments. According to detailed chapter breakdowns, Traore delivers an impressive performance that cuts through Japan’s defensive lines, putting the Blue Lock team under serious pressure.
The French squad, known for its technical skill and tactical discipline, uses Traore’s abilities to create scoring chances. His movements challenge Japan’s defense, which is already adjusting to the new attacking formation. This sequence highlights the gap between Japan’s developing style and France’s established world-class level.
Yet, Japan refuses to back down. The team’s “all-offense” formation, which includes Barou, Shidou, and now Kunigami, is designed to take risks. The idea is simple: overwhelm France with individual talent and unpredictable plays rather than sticking to a single organized system.
Spoiler Timeline and Chapter Availability
Blue Lock Chapter 340 Part 2 officially released on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, for most international readers. The chapter became available at the following times:
- United States: 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time (PT), 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET), 5:00 p.m. Central Time (CT)
- United Kingdom: 4:00 p.m. British Summer Time (BST)
- India: 8:30 p.m. Indian Standard Time (IST)
- Japan: Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 12:00 a.m. Japan Standard Time (JST)
- Australia: 2:00 a.m. Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) on Wednesday
The chapter is available to read officially through Kodansha’s K Manga app and the publisher’s website. Reading through official channels supports the creators, Muneyuki Kaneshiro (writer) and Yusuke Nomura (illustrator), ensuring the series continues without interruption.
What Happened in the First Part of Chapter 340
The first part of Chapter 340, which released on March 17, 2026, set the stage for the explosive second half. That section began with the second half kickoff, where Karasu Tabito led a triangle passing attack. France quickly noticed the shift, with Loki commenting that Japan had completely changed its strategy.
Hiori and Karasu formed a double playmaker system, allowing Isagi to move freely and emerge from the shadows. The chapter ended with Isagi passing to Rin, and then Barou joining the play, creating a three-pronged attack that caught France off guard.
The second part picks up from that moment, adding Kunigami to the mix and pushing Japan’s counter-attack to full force.
Why Kunigami’s Return Matters
Kunigami’s role in the Blue Lock story has been one of the most talked-about developments. After being eliminated early in the series, he returned through the “Wild Card” program, transforming from a kind-hearted hero into a colder, more ruthless player focused only on goals. His presence on the field represents a different kind of ego—one built on survival and the desire to prove himself after being given a second chance.
Now, on the world stage against France, Kunigami has the opportunity to show whether his new style can compete with the best. His arrival in Chapter 340 Part 2 signals that Japan is throwing everything they have at the defending champions, with no plans to play it safe.
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