Qualification around the globe for the 2026 World Cup is nearing completion as nations compete for final spots. Several teams have already locked in their place. Others are still fighting in their confederations.
Who Has Qualified So Far
The three co-host countries β USA, Canada, and Mexico β automatically secured berths.
In Asia (AFC), several teams have qualified early: Japan, Iran, Jordan, South Korea, Australia, Uzbekistan.
From South America (CONMEBOL), Argentina became the first to qualify after a draw between Uruguay and Bolivia.
Later, Brazil and Ecuador also earned their spots.
In Africa (CAF), Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt have secured direct spots.
From Oceania (OFC), New Zealand claimed the single direct berth.
Other confederations, especially Europe (UEFA) and some CAF and CONCACAF spots, are still undecided.
How Many Spots Remain
The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams.
The slot allocations by confederation are:
- AFC: 8 direct + 1 via inter-confederation playoff
- CAF: 9 direct + 1 playoff slot
- CONCACAF: 3 direct + 3 host slots, plus 2 playoff slots
- CONMEBOL: 6 direct + 1 playoff slot
- OFC: 1 direct + 1 playoff slot
- UEFA: 16 direct, no playoff slot
At present, many UEFA spots remain open.
Inter-confederation playoffs in March 2026 will decide 2 final places.
The Road Ahead
In Asia, a fourth round is underway. Two group winners will qualify; runners-up move to another round.
In Europe, 12 group winners will qualify directly. Four more slots will be decided via playoffs.
Many nations are still in contention. In Asia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Iraq, Indonesia are fighting for the remaining AFC spots.
In CONCACAF, teams like Honduras, Panama, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Curacao are seeking the remaining automatic slots and playoff spots.
In Africa, several group races are still open. More teams will emerge through playoffs.
In Summary
Qualification for the 2026 World Cup is close to conclusion. Twenty-plus teams have already secured their tickets. Many spots, especially in Europe, Africa, and parts of CONCACAF and AFC, remain contested. The inter-confederation playoffs will seal the final two places in March 2026.
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