The race for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up, with some nations performing exceptionally well while others are struggling. As host nations, the United States, Mexico, and Canada have already secured their spots in the tournament. Meanwhile, several teams across the world have enjoyed a strong qualifying campaign, earning their place in the World Cup with games to spare.
Japan became the first team to qualify on March 20, followed by New Zealand, Iran, and Argentina in the subsequent days. With seven teams already through, more nations are on the verge of securing qualification in the upcoming rounds.
Asia (AFC)
Uzbekistan has a 92% chance of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time by finishing in the top two of Group A. Their ticket to the tournament depends on a crucial match against the United Arab Emirates on June 5.
Similarly, Jordan is close to making history by securing their first-ever World Cup appearance. They can qualify from Group B if they defeat Oman and Iraq loses to South Korea.
Meanwhile, South Korea needs just one more win in their remaining qualifiers to book their place in the tournament.
Africa (CAF)
Morocco is on the brink of qualification, requiring just one point to mathematically secure their spot. They currently lead Group E comfortably but will have to wait until September to make it official.
Egypt is also well-positioned to qualify, leading Group A with 16 points after six games. A victory against Ethiopia, coupled with Burkina Faso dropping points against Djibouti, would confirm their World Cup berth.
South America (CONMEBOL)
In South America, six teams will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup. With Argentina already through, Ecuador is poised to join them. Currently sitting second with 23 points, Ecuador can secure qualification by winning their next two matches—first against Brazil and then against Peru.
Europe (UEFA)
European qualification officially began on March 21, with teams not involved in the UEFA Nations League playing their opening matches.
However, the qualification picture remains unclear due to the limited number of games played so far. There are 12 groups, each consisting of four or five teams, playing home and away matches. The qualifying campaign will continue with double-header match days in June, September, and October, before concluding in November.
Some groups have yet to start their qualification matches due to ongoing UEFA Nations League commitments, while others have already played two games.
