The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers are heating up as 211 national teams battle for 45 coveted spots (plus 3 host nations). With expanded slots for Africa, Asia, and CONCACAF, this guide breaks down the latest standings, key fixtures, and how to stream every match live—plus predictions for surprise qualifiers.
2026 World Cup Qualifiers Format by Confederation
Each region has unique rules for the 48-team World Cup:
Confederation Slots Qualification Process
UEFA (Europe) 16 12 groups → winners + 4 best runners-up qualify; remaining 3 via playoffs.
CAF (Africa) 9 (+1) 9 group winners qualify; 4 runners-up enter intercontinental playoffs.
AFC (Asia) 8 (+1) 8 direct slots; 1 via playoff.
CONMEBOL 6 (+1) Round-robin league → top 6 qualify; 7th to playoff.
CONCACAF 6 (+1) Hexagonal final group → top 3 qualify; 4th–6th to playoffs.
OFC (Oceania) 1 (+1) Winner qualifies; runner-up to playoff.