FIFA World Cup 26: The Qualified Nations

Apr 18, 2025 Kriti Keshari

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be the biggest ever, featuring 48 teams across three host nations USA, Canada, and Mexico

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USA, Mexico, and Canada automatically qualify as hosts, with each nation preparing to shine on home soil

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Japan became the first AFC team to qualify, securing their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance

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New Zealand booked their third World Cup ticket by beating New Caledonia 3-0 in the OFC qualifying final

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IR Iran qualified in dramatic fashion after a 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan, marking their fourth straight appearance

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Defending champions Argentina became the first South American team to qualify after a draw between Bolivia and Uruguay

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A total of 46 teams will qualify directly from six confederations, with two more spots decided by intercontinental playoffs

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Six teams will battle in a global play-off tournament to claim the final two spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

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