2026 FIFA World Cup: 6 Asian Teams Still Have a Chance – Find Out How
The race for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is almost over, but six Asian teams still have a chance to make it. With only two direct spots and one playoff spot left, the final qualifying matches will be very exciting!
6 Asian teams still have a chance to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Learn how Qatar, Saudi Arabia, others can grab the last few spots in the tournament!
Let’s break down who is still in the game and how they can qualify.
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Who Has Already Qualified from Asia?
Six teams from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have already booked their tickets to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico:
- Japan
- Australia
- South Korea
- Iraq
- Uzbekistan
- Jordan
These teams finished in the top two of their third-round groups.
Which Six Teams Are Still in the Race?
The following teams are still fighting for a World Cup spot:
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Indonesia
- Iraq
- Oman
These teams finished 3rd or 4th in the previous round and moved on to the final playoff round.
What’s Next in the Qualifiers?
Fourth Round – October 2025
- Two groups of 3 teams will play in Qatar and Saudi Arabia
- Matches will be played between October 8 to 14, 2025
- Group winners will qualify directly for the World Cup
Fifth Round – November 2025
- The runners-up from each group will face each other in two matches
- Dates: November 13 and 18, 2025
- The winner will go to the intercontinental playoffs for a final shot at qualification
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What Happened in the Last Round?
The third round had three groups of six teams. The top 2 teams from each group qualified directly for the World Cup.
The 3rd and 4th placed teams advanced to the final qualifying round. The bottom two teams were eliminated. Palestine came close but missed out after a late loss to Oman.
What’s the Intercontinental Playoff?
The intercontinental playoff gives one final chance to teams from different continents to reach the World Cup. If one of the Asian teams wins that match, they’ll claim the last remaining spot.
When and Where Is the Next AFC Asian Cup?
The 2027 AFC Asian Cup will be hosted by Saudi Arabia, who will also host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Some teams from the World Cup qualifiers have already secured a spot in that tournament.
With only 3 spots left, the pressure is on. Fans across Asia will be watching closely as these teams battle it out in October and November 2025. Will your country make it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
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