The first three spots automatically went to the co-hosts: Canada, the US, and Mexico. Asia has determined its six qualifying teams: Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, and Uzbekistan. South America has also filled its six slots with Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The remaining confirmed spot belongs to New Zealand from Oceania.

Among the qualified teams, there are two newcomers, both from Asia: Jordan and Uzbekistan. Neither team has ever won the Asian Cup.

Messi celebrates a goal during Argentina's victory over Venezuela at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina, during the penultimate round of South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on the evening of 4/9/2025. Photo: *Reuters*

32 spots remain unclaimed as qualifying matches continue in other regions. While South America and Oceania have determined their direct qualification spots, an intercontinental playoff spot is still up for grabs. Venezuela and Bolivia are vying for this spot in South America. In Oceania, the playoff spot belongs to New Caledonia, ranked 152nd in the world.

African qualifiers will conclude in November of this year, determining 9 direct entries to the World Cup and one playoff spot. However, this month, several teams are poised for early qualification due to significant leads in their groups: Egypt, South Africa, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Ghana.

North and Central America's qualifiers will award three direct spots and two playoff spots, in addition to the three spots allocated to the co-hosts. These spots will not be determined until November.

European qualifiers are in their early stages, but some teams, like Norway and England, have established substantial leads. Germany and Italy have each suffered a defeat and face potential elimination if they falter.

Europe has 16 direct qualification spots this cycle, with no playoff berths.

Asian qualifiers, not taking place this month, will continue in October. Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Qatar, Oman, and the UAE will compete in the fourth round of qualifying for two direct spots in the final tournament and two spots in the fifth round. Indonesia will face Saudi Arabia on 8/10 and Iraq three days later. The winner of the fifth round will secure the playoff spot.

The playoffs, featuring six teams from different continents competing for the final two World Cup spots, will take place in 3/2026. The final tournament will run from 11/6 to 19/7/2026.

Compiled by Hoang An