Battle for World Cup Berths: Asian Powerhouses Clash
Saudi Arabia will face Iraq and Indonesia in Asia's 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Meanwhile, Qatar battles the UAE and Oman. Winners join nations like Australia and Japan in the expanded U.S., Canada, and Mexico finals. Second-place teams fight in November for a potential ninth Asian spot via playoffs.
In a thrilling draw for Asia's 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Saudi Arabia is set to face Iraq and Indonesia in one of the standout groups. Meanwhile, Qatar will encounter tough competition from the UAE and Oman as teams vie for coveted spots in the upcoming finals.
The winners of these tightly-contested groups will join footballing giants like Australia, Japan, and South Korea in next year's expansive event in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Saudi Arabia, aspiring for a seventh World Cup appearance, will kick off their campaign against Indonesia on October 8 at home.
Notably, Qatar, fresh from hosting the 2022 World Cup, seeks to break new ground by qualifying directly for the finals. As second-place teams eye the November playoffs for a shot at an intercontinental berth, anticipation builds across the Asian continent.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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- Asia
- 2026 qualifiers
- Qatar
- Iraq
- Indonesia
- UAE
- Oman
- playoffs
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