UPDATE: A record number of teams from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) have officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to kick off on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City. Following the draw held in Washington on Friday, teams including Morocco, Egypt, Iran, and Saudi Arabia now know their initial group stage opponents, creating heightened anticipation as the soccer world gears up for this historic tournament.
This year’s tournament marks a significant milestone, featuring 48 teams—the largest in World Cup history—spanning across 16 host cities, including two in Canada, three in Mexico, and 11 in the United States. The finals will culminate with the championship match at the New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026.
The expansion of the tournament has ensured that more teams from the MENA region will compete than ever before, with five teams already confirmed to participate, including host nation Qatar. The draw has intensified excitement as teams prepare to battle for glory on the world stage.
Morocco, known as the Atlas Lions, enters the tournament with high expectations after an impressive run in the 2022 World Cup, where they finished fourth. They have been drawn in Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Haiti. Coach Walid Regragui will lead a squad featuring stars like Achraf Hakimi and Hakim Ziyech.
Meanwhile, Iran—the Team Melli—is aiming for a strong showing in their seventh World Cup appearance. Drawn into Group G with Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, Iran will look to build on its legacy, having qualified early in March 2025.
The Pharaohs of Egypt, who made history as the first MENA team to participate in a World Cup back in 1934, are determined to break their group stage curse. They will face Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand in Group G.
In a notable comeback, Saudi Arabia has also qualified, marking their seventh World Cup appearance. They will compete in Group H against Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde.
As excitement builds, the remaining six slots for the 2026 World Cup will be determined through play-offs in March 2026. Among the teams still vying for a spot are Turkey and Iraq, with their fate hanging in the balance as they prepare for crucial matches.
The stage is set for an unforgettable tournament, with the world watching as teams from the MENA region take their place in soccer history. With the first match only seven months away, anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling competition filled with drama and passion.
Stay tuned for further updates as teams prepare for their journeys to the World Cup and the final play-off outcomes that will shape the tournament landscape.
