2026 World Cup: These nations could be the next to qualify | OneFootball

Coupe du Monde

The identity of the 48 teams set to participate in the 2026 World Cup is becoming clearer. In the coming days, several spots will be secured.

With seven months to go until the 2026 World Cup, the November international break is shaping up to be crucial. Of the 48 available spots, 28 have already been claimed, but this window will see several major footballing nations punch their ticket to the tournament.

In Europe (UEFA), France will qualify tonight with a win over Ukraine, while Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal needs just a victory in Ireland to book their place. The Netherlands and Belgium are also on the verge of clinching qualification in their respective groups. Croatia, meanwhile, requires only a point against the Faroe Islands to secure a seventh World Cup appearance in eight editions. Italy, still trailing Norway, is already bracing for another play-off campaign.

In South America (CONMEBOL), the six direct qualifying spots have already been secured, leaving Bolivia, currently seventh, to compete in the intercontinental play-off tournament scheduled for March 2026 in Mexico (Guadalajara and Monterrey). This mini-tournament will bring together six teams from various confederations to battle for the final two World Cup berths.

In the Oceania zone (OFC), New Zealand has won the qualifying phase, but New Caledonia, the unlucky finalist, has earned a place in the intercontinental play-offs. There, they will join Bolivia and representatives from Asia, Africa, and CONCACAF.

In Asia (AFC), the race remains wide open between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, both nations eager to return to the world stage (1986 for Iraq, 1990 for the UAE).

In Africa (CAF), a mini-tournament in Rabat features Nigeria, Gabon, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The winner will secure a spot in the intercontinental play-offs. While Nigeria and Cameroon are favorites thanks to their experience, Chancel Mbemba's DR Congo and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's Gabon are hoping to spring a surprise.

Finally, in North and Central America (CONCACAF), Canada, the United States, and Mexico are already qualified as host nations. Behind them, Jamaica, led by Steve McClaren, is well positioned to make a long-awaited World Cup return, 28 years after France 1998.