As the qualification race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, four additional teams, apart from the three host nations, have officially secured their places in the prestigious tournament. The latest team to qualify is defending champions Argentina, who cemented their spot following a 0-0 draw between Bolivia and Uruguay during the CONMEBOL qualifiers. With their qualification confirmed, Argentina became the seventh nation to book a ticket to the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America.
This historic tournament will be jointly hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the USA. Here’s a look at the four nations that have already confirmed their participation:
Japan
The highest-ranked team in Asia, Japan, became the first non-host nation to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Competing in the AFC qualification tournament, Japan currently remains unbeaten in Group C, leading the standings. With this, the Blue Samurai have secured their eighth consecutive appearance at the FIFA World Cup.
Iran
Another Asian powerhouse, Iran, has also confirmed its place in the tournament. Topping Group A in the Asian qualifiers, Iran has established itself as a dominant force in international football. Led by Inter Milan striker Mehdi Taremi, the team aims to achieve a breakthrough knockout-stage appearance in North America.
New Zealand
For the first time in history, Oceania has been granted a direct qualification spot for the FIFA World Cup. Dominating OFC qualifiers, New Zealand easily secured their ticket. Led by Chris Wood, who netted a hat-trick for Nottingham Forest, New Zealand crushed Fiji 7-0 in the semifinals before comfortably defeating New Caledonia 3-0 in the final at Auckland’s Eden Park.
Argentina
The latest team to secure qualification, Argentina, dominated the South American qualification round and currently sits eight points clear with four matches remaining. Their recent 4-1 victory over Brazil, even in the absence of Lionel Messi, further reinforced their status as strong contenders to defend their World Cup title in 2026.
As the qualification process continues, several more teams will be looking to secure their places in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which promises to be one of the most exciting editions in football history.
