World Cup Qualifying Insights
The World Cup qualifyings are heating up during the September international break. Only 14 countries have secured their spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will happen in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. The expanded tournament lets many nations that have missed out before have another chance at glory, contributing to perennial qualifiers seeking to end their absences from FIFA’s main event.
Although the USMNT won’t participate in World Cup qualifying this time, they have significant matches ahead against South Korea and Japan. Other contenders like Italy and Norway are under pressure in UEFA to assert their dominance and earn a ticket to the World Cup, while Concacaf qualifiers are just beginning for teams aiming to join the host nations.
Who to Watch in Concacaf?
With the established three teams in Concacaf already in the World Cup lineup, the remainder of the field—like Jamaica, Panama, and Costa Rica—are hopeful about direct qualification. If any of these teams falter, others, such as Guatemala and Honduras, stand ready to capitalize with the extra slots available in the World Cup.
Norway’s Bid with Key Players
Norway is poised to make a statement with their star players, Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, aiming to bring their country back to the World Cup for the first time since 1998. After a perfect start in UEFA, they have games against Finland and Moldova that could solidify their place.
Italy’s Struggles Yet Hopeful
Fighting desperately to avoid missing their third consecutive World Cup, Italy approaches their upcoming matches looking to turn their fortunes around with a win after fluctuating performances under coach Gennaro Gattuso.
Brazil’s Need for Offensive Momentum
Despite qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, Brazil struggles to find their attacking rhythm under Carlo Ancelotti, netting only one goal in their last two matches against Ecuador and Paraguay. As they face Chile and Bolivia next, the pressure mounts for improvement.
USMNT’s Opportunity
The US Men’s National Team, under Mauricio Pochettino, hopes to establish a strong identity with significant victories against South Korea and Japan, while also experimenting with new talent as they finalize their roster ahead of the World Cup. Key players like Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams are tasked with stepping up along with Folarin Balogun, who will play his first competitive game under the coach.
