Thirty-three countries across six continents have now sealed their places at the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup, following the latest round of matches on Thursday. The global qualifying campaign has entered a decisive phase, especially in Africa, where the final berths are being fiercely contested.
Across the continent, nine nations have already booked their tickets after completing their qualification rounds. Two more—Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo—remain in contention as they prepare to clash in a high-stakes continental playoff final. The winner will advance to the intercontinental qualifying tournament, where six teams from different regions will fight for the last two slots at the World Cup.
Meanwhile, the qualification picture in other confederations is taking shape. The three host nations—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—are automatically through. Asia has produced a formidable lineup made up of consistent performers and emerging teams, while Europe has confirmed some of its strongest contenders. South America has ensured its traditional giants will be present, and Oceania will once again be represented by New Zealand.
Thursday’s results in Morocco set the stage for the African playoff showdown. DR Congo booked their place in the final after edging Cameroon 1–0 at Stade El Barid, while Nigeria advanced in dramatic fashion with a 4–1 extra-time victory over Gabon at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
Both teams now shift focus to Sunday’s decisive meeting, which will determine which African nation progresses to the March 2026 intercontinental playoff in Mexico. That tournament will ultimately decide the last two teams to join the World Cup lineup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
With qualification nearing its final phase, excitement continues to build as the world awaits the complete list of teams set to compete at the historic 48-team global showpiece.
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