The race for the final 18 spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is entering a dramatic phase, with Europe and Africa producing high-stakes battles as nations push to secure their place at next year’s global tournament.
In Europe, several groups remain finely balanced.
Scotland slipped into a dangerous position after a 3–2 loss to Greece, leaving them one point behind Denmark in Group C. Both nations now head into a winner-takes-all showdown on Tuesday, with Scotland needing victory to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Group J remains tense as well, with Wales holding a slim chance of finishing top. To do so, they must beat North Macedonia and hope Belgium unexpectedly lose at home to Liechtenstein. Belgium and Portugal can seal qualification with wins in their next games. The Netherlands and Norway are also on the brink of securing their places, barring unlikely goal-difference swings.
In Africa, the qualification picture is almost complete.
Tunisia and Morocco sealed their places early and have since been joined by Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and South Africa—who will return to the World Cup for the first time since hosting in 2010.
With one African slot remaining, Nigeria will rely on in-form striker Victor Osimhen as the Super Eagles face Congo in a decisive fixture. Both nations hope to strengthen their chances and build confidence ahead of upcoming competitions.
Qualified Teams So Far
Hosts: Canada, Mexico, United States
Africa: Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia
Asia: Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Uzbekistan
Europe: Croatia, England, France
Oceania: New Zealand
South America: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay
With crucial matches still ahead, fans across the world are preparing for a thrilling finish as teams battle for the remaining places on football’s biggest stage in 2026.
