The journey to the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup involves teams from across the globe competing for spots in the expanded 48-team event, which will kick off on June 11, 2026, in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. As the qualification process progresses, some nations have already clinched their spots, while others are still battling through demanding qualifying matches. Here’s an update on World Cup qualifying, particularly focusing on the Eastern region.
AFC
The Asian qualifiers have reached their third round, with teams vying for eight direct entries and one spot in an intercontinental playoff. Check out the complete AFC rankings.
Qualified Team
Alexi Lalas and David Moss have commented on the aspirations of players seeking to become starters for the US Men’s National Team in the upcoming tournament.
Upcoming Matches
- Thursday, June 5th
- Tuesday, June 10th
CAF
The African qualification consists of nine groups, where group winners qualify directly, and the four best second-place teams will compete in playoffs for a shot at an intercontinental playoff position. Full CAF rankings are available.
CONCACAF
With the US, Mexico, and Canada automatically qualifying as hosts, other CONCACAF nations are competing for additional spots through group stages and playoff matches. Full CONCACAF rankings are displayed.
Qualified Teams
- United States (as a co-host)
- Mexico (as a co-host)
- Canada (as a co-host)
Upcoming Matches
- Wednesday, June 4th
- Friday, June 6th (Cuba vs. Old – 3 PM on Fox Sports)
- Saturday, June 7th
- Tuesday, June 10th
CONMEBOL
The South American qualifiers remain fiercely competitive, with established teams and newcomers contesting for six direct spots plus one intercontinental playoff entry. Complete CONMEBOL rankings are available.
Upcoming Matches
- Thursday, June 5th
- Friday, June 6th
- Colombia vs. Peru – 4:30 PM
- Venezuela vs. Bolivia – 6 PM
- Tuesday, June 10th
UEFA
Europe has 16 spots available in the 2026 World Cup, with qualifications organized into 12 groups. Group winners will qualify directly, while the best runners-up will enter the playoffs. Full UEFA rankings can be viewed.
Upcoming Matches
- Friday, June 6th
- Saturday, June 7th
- Monday, June 9th
- Tuesday, June 10th
- Finland vs. Poland – 2:45 PM
- Netherlands vs. Malta – 2:45 PM (FS2)
OFC
The Oceania region has already secured its first World Cup spot, and qualifying rankings are available for OFC.
2026 FIFA World Cup Team
The next team to secure its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be announced.
Host Nations
For the first time, 48 teams will participate in the World Cup, up from the previous total of 32.
How to Watch
Matches will be broadcasted on Fox, FS1, Foxsports.com, and the Fox Sports app.
Final Draw
The final draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set for December 2025, in a location determined in the U.S.
Fan Take
This news holds significant importance for soccer fans as it marks an exciting evolution in the tournament format, allowing more nations to participate and showcasing the growth of the sport. As the world’s best teams prepare to compete on a larger stage, it could elevate the overall quality and competitiveness of international soccer, making each match more thrilling to watch.
