2026 World Cup Qualifiers

The qualification race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first edition expanding to 48 teams, has intensified across all confederations. In Asia, traditional powerhouses such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia have already secured their spots by finishing at the top of their groups, while teams like the UAE and Iraq are preparing for a crucial playoff that will determine who enters the intercontinental stage.

India, despite improved performances, saw its campaign end after a narrow defeat to Qatar, highlighting both progress and remaining gaps in competitive depth. In Europe, the qualification format has shifted to accommodate more teams. 

Twelve group winners will qualify directly, while the group runners-up prepare for a high-pressure playoff scheduled for March 2026. The competition has produced dominant displays, including convincing wins by top-tier European sides, signalling the fierce battle ahead for remaining spots. Meanwhile, Africa, South America, and CONCACAF continue their multi-stage qualification cycles, with several close contests and surprise contenders emerging. Smaller footballing nations such as Cape Verde have also captured attention through resilient performances and historic progress. Overall, the 2026 qualifiers reflect a global landscape where established football nations aim to assert dominance, while rising teams push to secure their place on the world’s biggest stage. The expanded format has opened new opportunities, adding intensity and unpredictability to the road to the World Cup.