FIFA World Cup Qualifiers 2026: Which Teams Have Secured Spots as Former Champions Battle for a Place
The FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying rounds are about to reach a pivotal moment. With the tournament set to be hosted in Canada, Mexico, and the US, 28 teams have already confirmed their participation, leaving 20 spots still available. The qualification matches will take place from November 14 to November 19, 2023. During this window, an additional 14 teams will secure their places in the prestigious tournament.
Historic First-Time Qualifiers
This edition of the World Cup is notable as it features an expanded format, including 48 teams for the first time. Among those already qualified are several smaller nations, like Uzbekistan and Jordan, which will mark their debut in the World Cup.
Qualified Teams Overview
Here is a summary of the teams currently qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026:
- Hosts: Canada, Mexico, United States
- Asia (AFC): Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Qatar, Uzbekistan
- South America (CONMEBOL): Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay
- Oceania (OFC): New Zealand
- Africa (CAF): Nine teams, including history-making Cape Verde
- Europe (UEFA): England (currently the only guaranteed European qualifier)
Upcoming Qualifying Matches
As qualifying matches commence, 48 fixtures are on the schedule. These matches will consolidate the competition for the remaining spots. In Europe, teams are divided into groups, with the top teams securing automatic qualification.
Key Matches to Watch
Several matches are critical in determining which teams will qualify:
- Germany vs. Slovakia
- Italy vs. Norway
- Austria vs. Cyprus
– A pivotal match in Group A, with both teams tied on points.
– With Norway leading the group, this match on November 17 could decide the final standings.
– Austria could qualify for its first World Cup since 1998 with a victory.
Future Qualification Rounds
The excitement will continue beyond November. In March, further opportunities for qualification will arise as European group runners-up compete in additional rounds. Six non-European teams will join the fray in inter-confederation play-offs, aiming for the last available spots in the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be a historic event, with many nations vying for glory and a chance to make their mark on football history.
