Overview

• The AFC confirmed eight direct qualifiers—Japan, Iran, South Korea, Australia, Uzbekistan, Jordan, Qatar and Saudi Arabia—with Uzbekistan and Jordan set for their World Cup debuts.
• Iraq and the United Arab Emirates will contest a home-and-away playoff next month, with the winner advancing to the intercontinental playoff in March 2026.
• The global tally stands at 28 of 48 places secured, counting hosts United States, Canada and Mexico plus Oceania's New Zealand.
• Africa’s nine direct berths are set for Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Cape Verde, Ghana, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal.
• The final places will be decided via remaining continental playoffs and an intercontinental mini-tournament featuring Bolivia, New Caledonia, the Asian playoff winner and an African playoff winner, which will award two berths in March 2026.