England, Portugal, and Norway Poised for 2026 World Cup Qualification
As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, England and Portugal find themselves in prime positions to clinch their qualifying groups with two matches remaining. Meanwhile, Norway is just one win away from securing their spot in the tournament for the first time since 1998, leaving Italy facing the prospect of missing out for a third consecutive World Cup.
England’s Dominance
Under the leadership of Thomas Tuchel, England has made a strong statement in their qualifying campaign, highlighted by a commanding 5-0 victory over Serbia in Belgrade last month. The Three Lions have yet to concede a goal in five qualifiers and are scheduled to face Latvia in Riga on Tuesday. A win would guarantee their place in next year’s finals in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, provided Serbia does not defeat Albania in their match on Saturday.
Currently, England holds a seven-point lead over Albania with three matches left, while Serbia trails by a point but has a game in hand. Tuchel’s recent squad selection has seen some standout performers, leading to the omission of big names like Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Jack Grealish. “Keep on pushing,” Tuchel urged the squad, emphasizing the strong team spirit established in the previous camp.
Portugal’s Path to Success
Portugal is also on the brink of qualification, having scored eight goals in their first two qualifiers in September. Coach Roberto Martinez’s side will likely secure top position in Group F with victories against the Republic of Ireland on Saturday and Hungary on Tuesday, barring any surprises from Armenia. Cristiano Ronaldo has been in fine form, netting three goals in September, including a crucial strike in a 3-2 win over Hungary.
The Portuguese aim for their seventh consecutive World Cup appearance, and with their current momentum, they look set to achieve that goal.
Norway’s Historic Opportunity
Norway is enjoying a remarkable qualifying campaign, scoring 24 goals in five consecutive wins. Star striker Erling Haaland has been a key player, netting nine goals in the group, including five in a staggering 11-1 victory over Moldova. Norway will host Israel on Saturday, knowing that a win would end their 28-year absence from the World Cup, contingent on Italy’s performance against Estonia or Israel.
However, Norway will have to cope without captain Martin Ødegaard, who is sidelined with a knee injury. Coach Stale Solbakken expressed his frustration over the loss but emphasized the need for a constructive approach moving forward.
Other European Contenders
Italy, a four-time world champion, is desperate to avoid another playoff scenario after failing to qualify in 2018 and 2022. They will be watching closely as other teams, including France and Spain, also aim for qualification. France could secure a spot with wins against Azerbaijan and Iceland, while Spain has the opportunity to book their ticket if they defeat Georgia and Bulgaria, depending on other results.
Germany, however, faces pressure after an unexpected defeat to Slovakia in their opening qualifier. Julian Nagelsmann’s side will need to find their form quickly as they prepare for matches against Luxembourg and Northern Ireland.
