The race to the 2026 World Cup intensifies as 18 teams secure spots, while others battle for qualification. Key highlights include Morocco and Tunisia’s success in Africa, challenges for European giants like Sweden, and New Zealand’s dominance in Oceania. The expanded format promises a thrilling tournament.
The quest for a place at the 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is heating up. With an expanded format of 48 teams, the competition is fierce, and the stakes are higher than ever. While the host nations have automatically qualified, 43 spots remain open, and nations across the globe are battling for a coveted place in the tournament. The final two berths will be decided in March through a six-team intercontinental playoff held in Monterrey and Guadalajara.
As of now, 18 countries have already secured their places, igniting excitement among their fans and setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling World Cup. The draw, scheduled for December 5th at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., is eagerly anticipated, where the qualified teams will learn their group stage opponents.
Africa: Morocco and Tunisia Lead the Charge
In Africa, the competition is intense, with nine group winners gaining automatic qualification. The four best runners-up will then vie for a single spot in the intercontinental playoffs through a pan-African playoff in November. Morocco, riding high after their historic semi-final appearance at Qatar 2022, and Tunisia, boasting an impressive defensive record, have already booked their tickets to the World Cup.
Egypt, led by their talisman Mohamed Salah, are in a strong position to qualify from their group. However, they were held to a goalless draw by Burkina Faso, delaying their confirmation. Adding to their concerns, forward Omar Marmoush suffered a knee injury, casting doubt over his availability for upcoming matches.
Cape Verde is on the verge of making history, needing just one win to qualify for their first-ever World Cup after defeating Cameroon. Meanwhile, Senegal staged a remarkable comeback against DR Congo, winning 3-2 and overtaking their opponents to top their group. The match featured goals from Newcastle's Yoane Wissa and Bayern Munich loanee Nicolas Jackson.
Nigeria's chances of qualifying are diminishing after a draw against South Africa, who are poised to top their group. The situation is further complicated by a potential FIFA investigation into South Africa fielding a suspended player in a previous match. Ivory Coast, Algeria, and Ghana are in favorable positions to secure direct qualification.
Asia: Japan, Iran, South Korea, and Australia Among the Qualified
Asia offers eight direct qualification spots, with one team also getting a chance through the intercontinental playoffs. Japan, Iran, South Korea, and Australia have already qualified, joined by Jordan and Uzbekistan, who are set to make their World Cup debuts.
The remaining direct qualification slots are contested by the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Iraq, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia, divided into two groups of three teams each. Saudi Arabia, the future World Cup hosts and giant-killers from Qatar 2022, face a crucial test as they aim to secure their place under the guidance of coach Hervé Renard.
Europe: England Looks Strong, Sweden Faces Uphill Battle
Europe's qualification process involves 12 groups, with the winners automatically qualifying. The remaining four spots will be decided through a playoff system involving group runners-up and Nations League group winners.
England, under Thomas Tuchel, appear to be in a comfortable position. However, other major teams like Italy, Germany, and Sweden are facing challenges. Sweden's hopes are hanging by a thread after disappointing results, compounded by concerns over the fitness of star striker Alexander Isak.
Norway, spearheaded by Erling Haaland's prolific scoring form, are on track for their first World Cup appearance since 1998. Germany, despite a recent win, are struggling to find consistency. Scotland and Wales are still in contention, while the Republic of Ireland's chances suffered a setback after a defeat to Armenia.
North America, Central America, and the Caribbean: McClaren's Jamaica in Contention
In North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, three automatic qualification spots are up for grabs. Steve McClaren's Jamaica, along with Suriname and Honduras, are well-positioned to advance.
Oceania: New Zealand Secures Automatic Qualification
Oceania's automatic qualification spot has been secured by New Zealand, while New Caledonia will compete in the intercontinental playoffs.
South America: Argentina and Brazil Among the Qualified
South America sees Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia, Uruguay, and Paraguay securing their places. Bolivia clinched the intercontinental playoff spot with a surprising victory over Brazil, who finished in their lowest qualifying position.