As of right now, at least ten nations have purchased tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Jordan and Uzbekistan becoming the first nations to qualify for the international tournament.
Although the United Arab Emirates held Uzbekistan to a goalless draw in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, Uzbekistan managed to earn their spot. With one game remaining in the Asian qualifications, they finished second in Group A behind Iran thanks to the outcome.
As a further indication of their dominance in Asian football, South Korea confirmed their 11th consecutive World Cup appearance.
Along with Japan, New Zealand, Iran, and defending world champions Argentina, the three countries—Jordan, Uzbekistan, and South Korea—have joined the growing list of confirmed participants.
The United States, Canada, and Mexico, who are co-hosts of the tournament, have already qualified as hosts automatically.
Now that six of Asia’s automatic spots have been filled, competition for the other spots is still going on.
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With their respective group finishes of third and fourth, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar have advanced to the next qualifying round. There, they’ll face off against four other teams for two more World Cup spots.
With an expanded format of 48 teams and shared hosting by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 World Cup will present fresh chances for countries to compete on football’s largest platform.
