The FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification process is in full swing, with the anticipation building for the expanded 48-team tournament. Hosts Canada, Mexico, and the United States, along with Argentina and Brazil, are already confirmed participants. Excitement is building as several nations are on the cusp of qualifying for their maiden World Cup appearance. Here’s a look at some of the teams hoping to make their debut in 2026:
**Potential FIFA World Cup 2026 First-Timers:**
* Jordan – Qualified
* Uzbekistan – Qualified
* Cabo Verde
* Curaçao
* Guatemala
* Nicaragua
* Suriname
* New Caledonia
**Key Dates for the FIFA 2026 World Cup:**
* 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 Distribution:**
* 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.