Rome, June 6 (LaPresse) – Ten national teams have so far qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Alongside hosts Canada, Mexico, and the United States, Japan, New Zealand, Iran, and Argentina had already secured their spots. Yesterday, South Korea, Uzbekistan, and Jordan also qualified — with Uzbekistan and Jordan making their historic first-ever appearances in the final stage of the World Cup, which for the first time will expand from 32 to 48 teams.
In Basra, South Korea defeated Iraq 2-0 with goals from Kim Jingyu and Oh Hyeongyu, securing the top spot in their group with 19 points. This result also favored Jordan, who qualified after a 3-0 win against Oman in Muscat, thanks to a hat-trick from Ali Olwan. Uzbekistan earned its first-ever qualification with a 0-0 draw against the United Arab Emirates, putting them four points ahead with one match remaining.
The World Cup will officially kick off on June 11, 2026, with the opening match held at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium, and it will conclude with the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New York.
© Copyright LaPresse