31 Nations Secure Spots for 2026 FIFA World Cup as Portugal Smash Armenia 9–1
A total of 31 countries have now officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Portugal becoming the latest nation to book their ticket after a ruthless 9-1 demolition of Armenia on Sunday.
Despite missing their captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, who was suspended after a red card in Portugal’s 2–0 loss to the Republic of Ireland, Roberto Martínez’s men delivered one of the most dominant performances of the qualification round.
At the Estádio do Dragão, goals poured in freely from Renato Veiga, Gonçalo Ramos, Francisco Conceição, and stunning hat-tricks from João Neves and Bruno Fernandes.
The result sealed Portugal’s qualification and sent a clear message to other contenders: they are coming to North America to compete, not participate.
Meanwhile, host nations USA, Canada, and Mexico received automatic spots, leaving 31 confirmed teams so far as the expanded 48-team tournament draws closer.
Qualified Countries So Far
Host Nations
United States
Mexico
Canada
Asia (AFC)
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
South Korea
Uzbekistan
Australia
Iran
Japan
Jordan
Africa (CAF)
Senegal
South Africa
Tunisia
Algeria
Cape Verde
Egypt
Ghana
Ivory Coast
Morocco
Concacaf
None yet qualified through playoffs
Europe (UEFA)
Portugal
Croatia
England
France
Oceania (OFC)
New Zealand
South America (CONMEBOL)
Paraguay
Uruguay
Argentina
Brazil
Colombia
Ecuador
Opinion: A Historic World Cup Is Loading — and Africa Looks Particularly Ready
With 31 nations confirmed, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be one of the most competitive tournaments in recent history. The expanded format allows more countries to dream, but the early list shows one clear trend:
Africa is coming in strong.
With nine African nations already qualified, including powerhouses like Senegal, Egypt, Morocco, and Ivory Coast, the continent is arguably better represented — and better prepared — than ever.
Morocco’s World Cup run in Qatar changed the global perception of African football. Now, with more slots and more quality, Africa looks poised not just to participate, but to compete at the highest level.
Europe remains Europe — but Portugal’s statement win stands out.
A 9–1 victory without Cristiano Ronaldo is a message many will not ignore. Portugal’s new generation — Neves, Conceição, Ramos — is quickly proving that the team’s future is secure even when their legendary captain is absent.
South America brings firepower as usual.
Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Uruguay entering the tournament guarantees flair, emotions, and unforgettable matchups.
And with host nations preparing massive stadiums and record-breaking fan engagement, 2026 may become the most watched World Cup ever.
With only a few qualification slots left, the stage is almost set for what promises to be a global football festival like no other.
