After an intriguing seven-month period, the second round of Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup concluded in June, paving the way for the third and final round. With the World Cup expanding to 48 teams, Asia will now have a minimum of eight representatives at the tournament in two years' time. The increase in competing nations has led to a change in the Asian qualifiers, with 18 teams set to battle it out in the third round.
QATAR
Qatar, the reigning champions of the AFC Asian Cup, dominated the second round with five wins and a draw to top Group A. Star striker Almoez Ali shone brightly, finishing as the joint-top scorer with seven goals.
KUWAIT
After overcoming a FIFA suspension and a slow start in the previous World Cup qualifiers, Kuwait secured their progress with a crucial 1-0 win over Afghanistan in the second round.
JAPAN
Japan displayed dominance in the second round with a perfect record of six wins and an impressive goal tally of 24 without conceding. Coach Hajime Moriyasu even experimented with a new formation in their final qualifier.
NORTH KOREA
North Korea advanced to the third round despite forfeiting a match, securing their spot with a crucial win over Syria and assistance from Japan.
SOUTH KOREA
South Korea, led by Son Heung-Min, showcased their strength with notable wins in the second round, finishing as a formidable team in Group C.
CHINA
China faced challenges in the second round but managed to scrape through on a superior head-to-head record, securing their spot in the third round.
OMAN
Oman topped Group D in a closely contested battle, finishing ahead of Malaysia by a narrow margin.
KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
Kyrgyz Republic secured the second qualifying spot in Group D with a crucial draw against Oman, showcasing their control throughout the qualifiers.
IRAN
Iran and Uzbekistan secured their places in the third round early on in Group E, with Iran being held to draws by Uzbekistan.
UZBEKISTAN
Uzbekistan, aiming to qualify for their first World Cup, showed promise with commendable draws against Iran in the second round.
IRAQ
Iraq emerged as clear favorites in Group F, finishing with a perfect 18-point haul and positioning themselves strongly for qualification.
INDONESIA
Indonesia advanced to the third round for the first time, edging out Vietnam in a Southeast Asian battle for second spot in Group F.
JORDAN
Jordan, after a remarkable Asian Cup run, secured their place in the final round as Group G winners, defeating Saudi Arabia in a crucial match.
SAUDI ARABIA
Saudi Arabia, aiming for a third consecutive World Cup appearance, finished as runners-up in Group G and face tough opponents in the third round.
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
The United Arab Emirates performed well in the second round, claiming 16 points and positioning themselves as likely beneficiaries of the expanded tournament.
BAHRAIN
Bahrain secured their spot in the third round alongside the UAE, overcoming minor hurdles in Group H to progress.
AUSTRALIA
Australia impressed in the second round with 22 goals and a solid defensive record, setting themselves up as strong contenders for qualification.
PALESTINE
Despite challenges, Palestine advanced to the final round of qualifiers, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
