FIFA World Cup 2026: Countries That Have Qualified After March International Break
The first international break of the year brought intense battles as nations vied for a spot in the much-anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026. With the tournament set to feature an expanded 48-team format for the first time in history, the competition for qualification has been fiercer than ever.
Host Nations and Slot Allocation
The 2026 edition will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, who have all secured automatic qualification. The remaining 45 spots are being contested across the six confederations, allocated as follows:
- UEFA (Europe): 16 slots
- CONMEBOL (South America): 6 slots
- CAF (Africa): 9 slots
- AFC (Asia): 8 slots
- CONCACAF (North, Central America, and Caribbean): 6 slots
- OFC (Oceania): 1 slot
- Inter-Confederation Playoff: 2 slots
Confirmed Teams for FIFA World Cup 2026
After the March international break, four additional teams joined the host nations in securing their spots in the tournament.
1. Japan (AFC)
Japan became the first nation outside the hosts to qualify, sealing their place with a commanding 2-0 victory over Bahrain. Goals from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo ensured their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance. Head coach Hajime Moriyasu praised the team’s perseverance and vowed to continue improving in the remaining qualifiers.
2. New Zealand (OFC)
New Zealand clinched the only automatic slot from Oceania by defeating New Caledonia 3-0. This marks the first time the OFC has received an automatic qualification berth, and the Kiwis made history by qualifying for their third-ever World Cup.
3. Iran (AFC)
Iran joined Japan from the Asian confederation, securing their spot after a dramatic 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan. Mehdi Taremi’s brace ensured Team Melli’s fourth consecutive World Cup qualification. Uzbekistan, meanwhile, remains in contention for a historic first-time qualification.
4. Argentina (CONMEBOL)
The reigning world champions, Argentina, will defend their title in North America. Their qualification was confirmed even before playing, thanks to Bolivia’s draw against Uruguay. Lionel Scaloni’s squad celebrated the milestone with a resounding 4-0 victory over Brazil, reaffirming their dominance.
Major Nations at Risk of Missing Out
While some giants have secured their places, others are at risk of failing to qualify.
Nigeria’s Struggles (CAF)
Nigeria’s World Cup dreams are hanging by a thread after a shock extra-time draw against Zimbabwe. With South Africa leading their group following a crucial win over Benin, the Super Eagles must step up to avoid missing out on the tournament.
Senegal’s Tight Battle (CAF)
Senegal, the 2022 World Cup Round of 16 participants, remain in a heated battle with Sudan and DR Congo for the top spot in Group B. A recent slip by Sudan has given the Teranga Lions a lifeline, but the road ahead remains tough.
Can Harambee Stars Still Qualify?
Kenya’s Harambee Stars face a near-impossible task to qualify following their disappointing draw against Gambia and loss to Gabon. However, mathematical possibilities still exist, and the team must win all remaining matches while hoping for favorable results elsewhere.
What’s Next?
As more teams punch their tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026, the global footballing landscape is shaping up for a historic edition of the tournament. With more slots up for grabs, expect thrilling encounters in the coming months as teams fight for a place in North America.
In other news: McCarthy Remains Hopeful Kenya Can Qualify for 2026 World Cup
FIFA World Cup 2026: Countries That Have Qualified After March International Break