Iraq and DR Congo are the last two teams to join the tournament. Iraq beat Bolivia 2-1, and Congo beat Jamaica 1-0 in extra time — finally sealing the field of 48 teams that will take part in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
At the BBVA Stadium in Monterrey, Mexico, Iraq returned to the World Cup for the first time since 1986. Ali Al-Mahdi opened the scoring in the 18th minute, Bolivia equalized through Moises Paniagua (38'), but Aymen Hussein was decisive in the 53rd minute. This historic moment marks 40 years of waiting — and the Iraqi bench burst into tears at the final whistle.
Iraq was drawn intoGroup G alongside Argentina, Jordan and Austria. Their first match will be against Messi's Argentina — a matchup every football fan will want to see.
In a match that ended 0-0 in regular time, Axel Tuanzebe was the hero for Congo when he scored after a corner in the 100th minute. Congo, representing a population of over 100 million, was drawn intoGroup H alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.
Earlier in March, four European teams completed their quota:
The big surprise: Italy stayed home. Four-time world champions will not take part in the 2026 World Cup.
The World Cup will begin on 11 June 2026 with the opening match of Mexico against South Africa at the Azteca. 104 matches, 16 stadiums, 48 teams — the biggest tournament in history.
Looking for tickets? All 2026 World Cup tickets | Sports packages with flight and hotel
