As of November 15, 2025, 30 of the 48 spots for the 2026 World Cup in North and Central America have officially been secured. Top teams from every major continent have qualified, while the remaining 18 spots are still fiercely contested through the final playoff rounds.
Europe: Giants Secured, Surprises Still Await
Among European teams, England, France, and Croatia are the first to officially qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Other top nations such as the Netherlands, Germany, and Portugal will have to wait for the final qualifying matches to secure their spots.
The Netherlands, in particular, are considered 99% likely to qualify due to their strong record compared to direct rival Poland. The competition promises to remain intense until the last moments, as Europe’s elite squads boast deep rosters filled with players from top leagues worldwide.
South America: The “Golden Continent” Ready for the World Cup
CONMEBOL wrapped up its qualifying rounds early, allowing top South American teams to focus on final preparations. Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay have officially secured their places.
These teams are arranging international friendlies to fine-tune tactics and lineups before the tournament. Multiple-time champions Brazil and Argentina remain favorites to lift the trophy.
Asia: Eight Teams Qualified, One More Spot Possible
Asia currently has eight confirmed participants for the 2026 World Cup: Australia, Iran, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, and Uzbekistan. The continent could claim a ninth spot if Iraq or the UAE succeed in the intercontinental playoff, though that is considered unlikely.
Asian teams are preparing meticulously in terms of tactics and physical conditioning, particularly experienced squads like Japan, South Korea, and Iran. The expanded 48-team tournament offers an opportunity for Asia to assert its presence on the global stage.
Africa: Cape Verde Makes History, Nine Teams Qualify
Africa has nine confirmed representatives: Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and South Africa. Notably, Cape Verde, nicknamed the “Blue Sharks,” will make its World Cup debut, marking a historic milestone for the nation.
Traditional football powers like Algeria, Ghana, and Egypt aim to demonstrate African excellence on the global stage, while Cape Verde is expected to be one of the tournament’s breakout stories.
Oceania and Host Nations: New Zealand and North America Ready
New Zealand is Oceania’s sole representative, earning a World Cup spot through impressive qualifying performances, returning to the tournament for the first time in 14 years.
Meanwhile, the three host nations — USA, Canada, and Mexico — are automatically qualified, giving them significant home-field advantage. The USA looks to replicate its quarterfinal run from over two decades ago, while Canada and Mexico aim to capitalize on familiar venues to advance deep into the tournament.
The Remaining 18 Spots: High-Stakes Playoffs
Eighteen World Cup spots are still undecided, setting the stage for thrilling playoff matches across continents. These games will determine the fate of numerous prominent and promising teams, potentially delivering surprises ahead of the 2026 tournament kickoff in North and Central America.