2026 FIFA World Cup to involve two new nations after countries seal qualification for the first time
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature two nations that have never played in the competition before.
There is just over a year to go until the biggest footballing tournament on the planet gets underway in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
It will take place from June 11 to July 19 and be the first to include 48 teams, expanded from 32.
The expansion means more countries will get to enjoy the experience of being a part of the spectacle and two debutants secured their places on Thursday.
Uzbekistan have qualified for the first time after their 0-0 draw with the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi.
There were jubilant scenes as the team finally got over the line after agonisingly falling short in the qualifiers for both Germany 2006 and Brazil 2014.
Uzbekistan, who have a population of 36 million and are ranked 57th in the world, Uzbekistan played their first match as a sovereign nation after leaving the Soviet Union in June 1992.
They will be joined by fellow newbies Jordan, whose 3-0 victory over Oman saw them qualify, 40 years on from their first campaign.
Uzbekistan and Jordan became the ninth and tenth teams to confirm their spots.
South Korea also sealed their passage on Thursday, joining the three hosts as well as Japan, New Zealand, Iran and Argentina.
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