The second international break of the 2025-26 season is here, with significant stakes involved as some of the world’s elite teams vie for spots in the much-anticipated 2026 World Cup slated to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. While the official draw will be conducted on December 5, 2025, not all teams will be finalized by that time; outcomes from UEFA and inter-confederation playoffs in March 2026 will determine the last entries.
Who Qualified Already?
Eighteen teams have secured their spots for the 2026 World Cup thus far. October will be crucial, especially for European teams that are entering their qualifier stages. The teams already in are:
- United States (Hosts)
- Mexico (Hosts)
- Canada (Hosts)
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Argentina
- Iran
- Uzbekistan
- South Korea
- Jordan
- Australia
- Brazil
- Ecuador
- Paraguay
- Uruguay
- Colombia
- Morocco
- Tunisia
USMNT Seizes Opportunity
Under Mauricio Pochettino, the US Men’s National Team will engage in two friendlies, leveraging the chance to build momentum after facing disappointments, including a Gold Cup final defeat to Mexico. Recent performances show promise, as the team emerged victorious against Japan and is now set to meet Ecuador and Australia.
Will Israel be Banned?
Last month, UN experts urged FIFA and UEFA to suspend Israel from international competitions given the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Occupied Palestinian Territory amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. However, it is speculated that any changes will not occur in the immediate future; Israel is scheduled to play against Norway and Italy soon, amid calls from protesters in Italy to reconsider participation.
Five Key Matches to Watch
Check out the notable matchups during this international break:
Friday, October 10
- Friendly: USA vs. Ecuador, 10:30 PM
- WCQ: Honduras vs. Costa Rica, 10 PM (Watch on Paramount+)
Saturday, October 11
- WCQ: Spain vs. Georgia, 2:45 PM
Tuesday, October 14
- WCQ: Italy vs. Israel, 2:45 PM
- Friendly: USA vs. Australia, 9 PM
Stay tuned for further developments as the teams position themselves for the upcoming World Cup.
