The countries dreaming of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 2026

Cabo Verde has officially punched its ticket to the 2026 World Cup, becoming the latest debutant to qualify for soccer’s biggest stage. But with only 22 teams confirmed so far, the race is still wide open—and several national squads are chasing the dream of making their first-ever World Cup appearance.

This historic edition of the tournament, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will feature at least three debutants: Uzbekistan, Jordan, and Cabo Verde, which clinched its spot on Monday.

Africa: underdogs on the brink

Two African nations could make history on Tuesday. Benin is leading its group with 17 points—two ahead of South Africa and three ahead of Nigeria. A win against Nigeria would seal their place, but a loss could knock them out of contention entirely.

Gabon, led by LAFC’s Denis Bouanga and veteran striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, faces a tougher path. Even with a win, they’ll need Ivory Coast to lose against Kenya to advance. Gabon currently sits at 22 points, just one behind the Elephants.

Concacaf: Caribbean hopefuls shine

In the Concacaf region, Guatemala’s chances are fading fast, but Suriname and Curaçao are keeping the dream alive. Both lead their respective groups. Suriname is tied with Panama at five points but holds the edge on goal differential. Curaçao stunned Jamaica at the Ergilio Hato Stadium and remains top of its group.

Europe: Kosovo eyes historic playoff spot

In UEFA action, Kosovo is inching closer to its first World Cup appearance after a dramatic win over Sweden in Stockholm. The victory puts the Scandinavian side on the ropes and boosts Kosovo’s chances of securing a continental playoff berth.

Oceania: New Caledonia joins the fight

Already a standout in the U-20 World Cup, New Caledonia has now advanced to the intercontinental playoff stage. The island nation is hoping to make the leap to the senior tournament and earn its first-ever World Cup appearance.

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