Thirty-three nations across six continents have officially secured their spots at the 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to the latest qualification figures following Thursday’s matches.
Africa has already seen nine teams qualify, having completed their continental qualification phase. Two additional nations, including Nigeria and DR Congo, are currently contesting the Africa playoffs for a chance to advance to the intercontinental round.
List of teams that have qualified for the 2026 World Cup as of Thursday:
Host nations: 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: England, France
Oceania: New Zealand
South America: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay
In the Africa playoffs, the Leopards of DR Congo will face the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the final scheduled for Sunday in Morocco. DR Congo earned their place after a 1-0 victory over Cameroon in the second semi-final at Stade El Barid, while Nigeria defeated Gabon 4-1 after extra time at the Moulay Hassan Stadium, both matches held in Rabat.
The winner of this continental playoff final will progress to a six-team intercontinental qualifier to be held in Mexico by March 2026. This round will determine the final two nations to join the 48-team World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States next year.
AFP
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