With just under two and a half months remaining, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is now officially set to feature 48 teams, marking the largest edition in history. The tournament, to be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada from 11 June to 19 July, concluded its final qualification play-offs over the past two days, cementing the last six participants.
The biggest headline comes from Asia, as Iraq secured the 48th and final spot by defeating Bolivia 2–1 in a dramatic intercontinental play-off final. This victory marks Iraq’s first World Cup appearance in 40 years, highlighting a remarkable comeback on the global stage.
Earlier, play-offs in Europe and North America saw Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Czech Republic, Turkey, Sweden, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo also secure their places. The tournament will notably miss four-time world champions Italy, who have failed to qualify for a third consecutive edition.
Italy’s exit came in a tense penalty shootout against Bosnia-Herzegovina. After leading 1–0 at half-time, Italy conceded an equaliser in the second half. Extra time yielded no further goals, and the shootout ended 4–1 in Bosnia’s favour, with Bosnia scoring on the first attempt and Italy missing key opportunities.
Other highlights from the play-offs include Sweden defeating Poland 3–2, Turkey securing a World Cup berth for the first time in 24 years by beating Kosovo 1–0, and the Czech Republic returning after 20 years following a 3–1 penalty shootout victory over Denmark. The Democratic Republic of the Congo also qualified for the first time in 52 years after defeating Jamaica 1–0.
The 2026 World Cup will feature 104 matches across the three host nations, and for the first time, 48 teams will compete in a group-stage format of twelve groups of four.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Groups
| Group | Teams |
|---|---|
| A | Czech Republic, Mexico, South Africa, South Korea |
| B | Bosnia-Herzegovina, Canada, Qatar, Switzerland |
| C | Brazil, Haiti, Morocco, Scotland |
| D | Australia, Paraguay, Turkey, United States |
| E | Germany, Curaçao, Ecuador, Ivory Coast |
| F | Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia |
| G | Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand |
| H | Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde |
| I | France, Senegal, Norway, Iraq |
| J | Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan |
| K | Portugal, Colombia, Jamaica, Uzbekistan |
| L | England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama |
Iraq will commence their campaign on 16 June in Foxborough against Norway, while Sweden opens against the Netherlands, Turkey faces Australia, and the Czech Republic meets hosts Mexico. With a record number of nations competing, the 2026 World Cup promises historic matches and memorable moments for football fans worldwide.