2026 FIFA World Cup AFC Qualifiers Announced for Qatar and Saudi Arabia

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has announced the draw for the fourth round of qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup during an event in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday. This draw marks a crucial step for the six teams still in contention for a spot in the expanded tournament next summer, which will feature 48 teams for the first time.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar, both notable for their back-to-back victories in the AFC Cup, have earned the advantage of hosting matches in this next round. The draw took place at AFC House, the continent’s football governing headquarters, underscoring the organization’s continued commitment to the development and promotion of football within Asia.
The teams progressing from the third round of AFC qualifiers include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Iraq, and Oman. These nations displayed resilience and skill to vie for a coveted position in the world’s premier football tournament.
In the fourth round of qualifying, the structure consists of two round-robin groups, with the top team from each group earning Asia’s last two automatic spots in the World Cup. One additional berth will be available through an intercontinental playoff, adding further excitement to the qualifying journey.
Qatar has been assigned to Group A, alongside the United Arab Emirates and Oman, while Saudi Arabia will host Iraq and Indonesia in Group B. The matches to decide the group placements are set to commence on October 8, with Saudi Arabia looking to qualify for a seventh World Cup since their debut in 1994. This endeavor reflects the nation’s dedication to sportsmanship and excellence on the international stage.
The remaining group matches promise to be thrilling, as Indonesia faces Iraq on October 11, followed by a critical encounter between Saudi Arabia and Iraq on October 14. In Group A, Qatar will open against Oman on the same date, with an eagerly anticipated match against the UAE on October 14.
The culmination of these qualifiers will be significant, paving the way for an exciting World Cup experience set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. These nations, known for their vibrant cultures and warm hospitality, will surely make the tournament an unforgettable celebration of football.
The final decision on the teams qualifying will not be finalized until the European rounds conclude in March, followed by the intercontinental playoff series scheduled for later that month. This timeline contributes to a thrilling atmosphere as fans await the confirmation of the 48 teams that will compete in this historic edition of the FIFA World Cup.
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