The qualification process for the 2026 FIFA World Cup continued Sunday with notable results for European contenders Portugal and Norway. The upcoming tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an expanded 48-team format-a meaningful increase from the traditional 32. These recent victories bring the total number of teams confirmed for the 2026 World Cup to 32, as nations across the globe vie for a place in the landmark event.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is expanding, and two more nations have secured their spots in the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States. With the field now set to include 48 teams – up from 32 – Portugal and Norway clinched qualification on Sunday, November 17th, becoming the fourth and fifth European teams to book their place.
Norway’s historic victory came on the road against Italy, securing them the top spot in Group I and earning them their first World Cup berth in 28 years, having last appeared in the tournament in 1998. The result marks a significant moment for Norwegian football and the nation’s supporters.
Portugal, meanwhile, delivered a dominant performance on Sunday evening, crushing Armenia 9-1 at home to finish as Group F winners. The emphatic victory showcased Portugal’s attacking prowess and solidified their position as a contender in the expanded tournament.
A total of 16 European teams will qualify for the final tournament, with 12 earning automatic qualification and the remaining four spots determined through a playoff system.
32 Nations Qualified for the 2026 World Cup
CONCACAF: Mexico, United States, Canada (3 co-host nations)
South America: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay
Oceania: New Zealand
Asia: Japan, Iran, South Korea, Uzbekistan (first time), Jordan (first time), Australia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia
Africa: Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, Cape Verde (first time), South Africa, Ivory Coast, Senegal
Europe: England, France, Croatia, Portugal, Norway
