As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, the qualification process is creating significant anticipation across the globe. The tournament will feature 48 teams, and the qualifying rounds are underway. Hosts Canada, Mexico, and the United States, along with Argentina and Brazil, have already qualified. Several nations are on track to make their debut on the world stage:
**Countries Potentially Debuting at FIFA World Cup 2026:**
* Jordan – Qualified
* Uzbekistan – Qualified
* Cabo Verde
* Curaçao
* Guatemala
* Nicaragua
* Suriname
* New Caledonia
**FIFA World Cup 2026 Key Dates:**
* Round of 32: June 28 – July 3, 2026
* Round of 16: July 4 – July 7, 2026
* Quarterfinals: July 9 – July 11, 2026
* Semifinals: July 14 – 15, 2026
* Bronze Final (3rd Place Match): July 18, 2026
**Qualification Slots Per Confederation:**
* AFC: eight direct slots and one play-off slot.
* CAF: nine direct slots and one play-off slot.
* CONCACAF: three direct slots, three host slots and two play-off slots.
* CONMEBOL: six direct slots and one play-off slot.
* OFC: one direct slot and one play-off slot.
* UEFA: 16 direct slots and zero play-off slots.