The Race to FIFA World Cup 2026: Who’s In, Who’s Close, Who’s Dreaming?
As the excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the race is on for nations across the globe to secure their spots in the tournament. A total of 39 teams will earn the coveted tickets to the biggest show on earth. Let’s take a closer look at who has already qualified, who is on the brink, and who is still chasing their dreams.
Already Qualified: The Early Birds
Several nations have already secured their places in the tournament:
– Japan led the charge with a decisive 2-0 victory over Bahrain on March 20.
– New Zealand followed suit, clinching the OFC crown on March 24.
– Iran and Argentina sealed their spots on March 25.
– Jordan and Uzbekistan made history on June 5 by qualifying for their first-ever World Cup.
– The Korea Republic extended their impressive streak to 11 consecutive appearances.
– Australia wrapped up the AFC third round on June 10.
– Brazil maintained their perfect record, joined by Ecuador in the South American qualifiers.
South America: Three Giants on the Brink
With Brazil, Ecuador, and Argentina already through, three more CONMEBOL contenders are closing in on qualification:
– Uruguay can qualify if they avoid defeat against Peru, or if other results fall in their favor.
– Paraguay needs to secure points against Ecuador while hoping for assistance from Argentina and Bolivia.
– Colombia can clinch their spot with a win against Bolivia or a draw, depending on Venezuela’s results.
Currently, Venezuela holds the playoff spot, with Bolivia and Peru still in contention. Meanwhile, Chile has been eliminated from the race.
Africa: September Showdowns Loom
The CAF qualifying rounds are heating up, with nine direct spots available. Here are the teams that could seal their deals soon:
– Egypt: Win both games, and they’re in. A draw might also suffice, depending on other results.
– South Africa: Needs victories against Lesotho and Nigeria, along with some favorable outcomes from Rwanda and Benin.
– Cabo Verde: A historic debut awaits if they can triumph over Mauritius and Cameroon.
– Morocco: Four points from their matches against Niger and Zambia could be enough, with various scenarios in play.
– Tunisia, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Algeria all have clear paths ahead, but the margins are tight and stakes high.
Asia: Six Still Standing
With Australia already qualified, the fourth round of Asian qualifiers kicks off in October:
– Indonesia, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE are split into two groups of three.
– Group winners will qualify directly, while runners-up face off in a fifth-round playoff for a chance to enter the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.
North America, Central America & Caribbean
Concacaf’s final round runs from September to November, promising thrilling matches as teams battle for limited spots.
Europe: Just Getting Started
UEFA qualifying only began in March, and no tickets have been punched yet. The race is just beginning, with several teams vying for their chance.
Oceania: One More Shot
New Caledonia may have fallen to New Zealand in the OFC final, but hope remains as they look ahead to the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.
