2026 FIFA World Cup: Brazil In, Palestine Out as Qualification Drama Unfolds Globally
JUNE 13, 2025 | IDNN Global Football Desk
As qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies across continents, the latest match window has delivered euphoria for some and devastation for others. Brazil have officially booked their ticket to North America, while Palestine’s heroic run ended in crushing disappointment.
🇧🇷 Brazil Confirmed for 2026
Five-time world champions Brazil sealed their place at the World Cup after defeating Paraguay 1-0, courtesy of a Vinicius Jr goal just before halftime in São Paulo. It was the Selecao’s first win under new manager Carlo Ancelotti, and it sparked wild celebration at the Corinthians Arena.
With the result, Brazil joins Argentina and Ecuador as the confirmed South American teams heading to the 2026 tournament.
🇵🇸 Palestine Eliminated in Agonizing Fashion
Palestine’s fairytale run came to an end in Amman, Jordan, where they were just minutes away from advancing. A goal from Oday Kharoub had given them a crucial lead over Oman, but a 97th-minute penalty from Essam Al-Subhi shattered their hopes.
Due to conflict in Gaza, Palestine has played all qualifiers at neutral venues. Their campaign, marked by resilience, has now ended in heartbreak.
WHO’S IN — CONFIRMED TEAMS SO FAR
Qualified Nations (As of June 2025):
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South America (CONMEBOL): Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador
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North America (CONCACAF): USA, Mexico, Canada (hosts)
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Asia (AFC): Iran, South Korea, Japan, Jordan, Uzbekistan, Australia
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Oceania (OFC): New Zealand
WHO’S OUT — MAJOR ELIMINATIONS
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Palestine (eliminated by Oman)
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China (failed to advance despite heavy investment)
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Chile (historic 1962 semi-finalists miss out again)
WHO’S STILL IN THE RACE
🟠 Africa (CAF):
No country has yet secured qualification. The final CAF round ends October 16, 2025, with Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, and others still in contention.
🟠 Europe (UEFA):
All 54 teams are still vying for 16 slots. Final qualifiers conclude November 18, 2025.
🟠 South America (CONMEBOL):
Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay, Venezuela, and Bolivia still competing.
Peru can only qualify via intercontinental playoffs.
🟠 Asia (AFC):
Ongoing battles among Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Indonesia, and Oman for remaining direct and playoff slots.
🟠 North & Central America (CONCACAF):
Honduras, Costa Rica, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, Panama, Guatemala, Haiti, and others have entered Round 3.
WHEN WILL THE FULL LIST BE COMPLETE?
The final 48-team field will be confirmed by March 31, 2026, after intercontinental playoffs. The tournament kicks off June 11, 2026, in Mexico City, with the final in New Jersey, USA on July 19, 2026.
