Which Six Asian Teams Are Ready for the Road to FIFA WC 26 Playoffs Showdown?
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Synopsis
As the AFC Asian Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026 begin, six teams from Asia are battling for coveted spots. With high stakes and fierce rivalries, this playoff stage promises to deliver thrilling matches. Can Oman secure their first World Cup appearance? Find out as the action unfolds in the weeks to come!
Key Takeaways
- Six Asian teams are competing for a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
- Group A features Qatar, UAE, and Oman.
- Group B includes Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia.
- The playoffs will determine which teams secure direct qualification.
- Oman aims for their first World Cup appearance.
Kuala Lumpur, Oct 3 (NationPress) Only six Asian teams are left in contention for a spot at the FIFA World Cup 2026, and the scene is set for an exhilarating contest in the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26 Playoffs Group Stage, which begins on Wednesday.
The competitors are split into two groups: Qatar, UAE, and Oman are in Group A, while Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia make up Group B.
Each group will compete for two direct spots, with only the winner of each group advancing, as they aim to join the six teams that have already secured their spots in the global tournament.
Runners-up in each group will have a final chance for qualification, facing off in a two-legged playoff on November 13 and 18.
This Knockout Stage will decide the AFC’s representative at the FIFA Play-Off Tournament, where they will compete against teams from other confederations for one of two available berths.
Oman is the only team seeking its historic first appearance at the FIFA World Cup, with Indonesia, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates striving for their second qualifications, while Qatar and Saudi Arabia hope to achieve back-to-back participations.
The opening match features a clash at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium between Group A teams Oman (FIFA Rank: 78) and Qatar (53) on October 8.
Oman is pursuing a breakthrough in their 10th qualifying campaign and can draw confidence from a 2-1 victory when both teams last played in December 2024 during the Gulf Cup – their first win in 11 matches since September 2009.
The reigning AFC Asian Cup champions, Qatar, will aim for a strong start at home as they target their second FIFA World Cup place in their 11th qualifying attempt, following their hosting in 2022.
On October 11, the UAE (67) will begin their journey against Oman, with whom they drew 1-1 in their last match at the Gulf Cup in December 2024.
The UAE is participating in their 11th qualifiers and is eager to break a long absence from the FIFA World Cup, dating back to their debut in 1990.
The King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah will host Group B matches, starting with a showdown between Indonesia (119) and Saudi Arabia (59) on October 8 at 8:15 PM. Indonesia is the only team from Round 1 to reach this stage, with their only previous World Cup appearance as the Dutch East Indies in 1938. The Southeast Asian team previously faced Saudi Arabia, managing a draw before achieving their first win in the return fixture. The home side aims to exact revenge as they eye a third consecutive qualification and seventh overall.
On October 11, Iraq (58) will take the field for their first match at 10:30 PM, facing Indonesia. Also aiming for their second World Cup appearance, and first since 1986, Iraq boasts a remarkable record against their opponents, having won their last eight encounters, including both group matches in the current qualifiers.
The playoffs' final matchday is set for October 14, with Qatar squaring off against UAE and Saudi Arabia taking on Iraq.
Point of View
I believe the upcoming AFC Asian Qualifiers will showcase the determination and talent of Asian football. Each team brings its unique story and aspiration to the table, and their journeys toward the World Cup epitomize the spirit of the game. Our nation stands with these teams, supporting their quest for glory on the international stage.
NationPress
03/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teams are competing in the AFC Asian Qualifiers?
There are six teams competing in the AFC Asian Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
When do the playoffs for the AFC Asian Qualifiers begin?
The playoffs for the AFC Asian Qualifiers begin on October 8.
Which teams are in Group A and Group B?
Group A consists of Qatar, UAE, and Oman, while Group B includes Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia.
What is at stake for the teams in the playoffs?
The teams are competing for two direct spots in the FIFA World Cup 2026, with runners-up having a chance to qualify through additional matches.
Where will the matches be held?
Group A matches will be held at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, and Group B matches will take place at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.
