The race to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to heat up across continents, with major nations securing crucial victories and others appointing new leadership ahead of the expanded 48-team tournament set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Egypt Seal Qualification with Salah Brilliance
Egypt became one of the first African nations to officially secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup following a commanding 3-0 win over Djibouti.
Liverpool star Mohamed Salah was once again the hero, scoring twice as the Pharaohs extended their unbeaten run in the qualifiers. The win confirmed Egypt’s place at the top of their group and ensured their return to football’s biggest stage.
Head coach Rui Vitória praised the team’s discipline, saying:
“This is the product of hard work and consistency. Egypt deserves to be at the World Cup.”
Spain Move One Step Closer
In Europe, Spain strengthened their grip on Group E with a 2-0 victory over Georgia in Elche. The Spanish side dominated possession and controlled the game throughout, with goals from Dani Olmo and Álvaro Morata sealing the result.
The win means Spain remain unbeaten in their qualifying campaign, edging closer to confirming their ticket to the 2026 tournament.
Haaland Hat-Trick Lifts Norway
Erling Haaland stole the show as Norway cruised to a 5-0 win over Israel. The Manchester City striker netted a brilliant hat-trick, taking his qualifying tally to nine goals.
Norway’s manager Ståle Solbakken hailed Haaland’s performance, describing it as “a statement of intent” as the team chases a World Cup spot for the first time since 1998.
UAE Stun Oman in Dramatic Finish
In Asia, the United Arab Emirates continued their impressive qualifying form with a dramatic 2-1 win over Oman. Two late goals in the final ten minutes turned the match around and kept UAE on course for a place at the World Cup.
Manager Paulo Bento said the comeback showed “the spirit and belief” within the squad.
Cannavaro to Lead Uzbekistan
Former Italian World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro has been appointed as the new head coach of Uzbekistan, a team preparing for its first-ever World Cup appearance.
Cannavaro expressed optimism, saying,
“This is a proud moment for me. Uzbekistan has great potential, and we aim to surprise the world.”
Tournament Updates and Global Concerns
FIFA confirmed that the official draw for the 2026 World Cup will take place on December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. This will be the first 48-team edition in history, expanding global participation.
However, questions remain over logistics, ticket sales, and geopolitical tensions particularly concerning Iran’s participation given the U.S. co-hosting role. FIFA also faces pressure to clarify pricing and security measures, with fans eager for details as the countdown continues.
Meanwhile, a new VAR system called Football Video Support (FVS) is being trialed at youth tournaments, allowing coaches limited video challenges per match part of FIFA’s effort to simplify and improve officiating before 2026.
The Road to 2026
As qualification draws closer to completion, teams across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas are solidifying their positions. The excitement builds as football fans around the world look forward to what promises to be the biggest and most inclusive World Cup ever.
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