FIFA World Cup Qualifiers 2026 Update
FIFA World Cup Qualifiers 2026 Update - Messi’s Brace, Ukraine vs France, Brazil vs Chile, Argentina vs Venezuela
“Hello, football fans! The race to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is in full swing, and qualifiers are delivering drama, goals, and unforgettable moments across every continent. Here’s your global update, with results, stories, and what’s next.”
2. South America (CONMEBOL) -
“In CONMEBOL, Lionel Messi marked his last home qualifier in spectacular fashion—scoring twice as Argentina beat Venezuela 3-0. Argentina now tops South American qualifying with 38 points. Meanwhile, Brazil consolidated second place with a 3-0 win over Chile, Uruguay beat Peru, Paraguay secured their first World Cup appearance since 2010, and Colombia also clinched qualification with a commanding 3-0 victory over Bolivia.”
3. Europe (UEFA) -
“Over in Europe, Spain started their campaign with a powerful 3-0 away win over Bulgaria—three first-half goals from Oyarzabal, Cucurella (his first for the national side), and Merino sealed the deal. Spain dominated possession for much of the game.
In Copenhagen, Denmark and Scotland played out a goalless draw. Scotland’s defense held strong, earning a valuable point—even amid controversy over a VAR handball review that ultimately didn’t result in more than a yellow card. ”
4. Rest of Europe (UEFA Other Highlights) -
“Other notable fixtures across UEFA: Greece thrashed Belarus 5-1; Slovenia and Sweden drew 2-2; Switzerland crushed Kosovo 4-0; France beat Ukraine 2-0; Iceland dismantled Azerbaijan 5-0; Italy hammered Estonia 5-0. Croatia and Czechia also grabbed away wins.
More fixtures are on the calendar—like England vs. Andorra upcoming (England has won all previous meetings without conceding) and Spain heading to Turkey next. ”
5. Africa (CAF) - In Africa, qualifiers are heating up. CAF has shifted to nine groups, with winners earning direct qualification and four runners-up heading to play-offs. Cape Verde is leading Group D and could make a historic debut, set to face Cameroon in a pivotal clash. ”Ghana BlackStars still on top of their group drew 1:1 with Chad.
6. Asia/OFC and CONCACAF -
“In Oceania (OFC), New Zealand has already qualified for the World Cup, while New Caledonia will head to the inter-confederation play-offs.
Asia’s fourth round is scheduled for October 2025 and will be held centrally in Qatar and Saudi Arabia—winners qualifying directly, runners-up advancing further.
In CONCACAF, Canada, the US, and Mexico automatically qualify as hosts. The third round is underway, determining the final qualifiers from the region via home-and-away group play.
Meanwhile, Mexico has arranged high-profile friendlies—for example, games against Japan, South Korea, Colombia, and Ecuador—to stay sharp. ”
7. Key Storylines & Controversies -
“Messi’s emotional farewell at home leaves fans wondering if he’ll play in the main tournament.
France’s Jules Koundé warned about football’s increasingly packed calendar taking a toll on players and the broader ecosystem.
Scotland manager Steve Clarke begins his final World Cup campaign, looking to steer them to their first tournament since 1998. ”
