Live Scores

football Live Scores & Fixtures

Players to watch out for at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 : Part 1

We've created a list of the players to watch out for at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, they're one of the best in this year's World Cup.

Jul 12, 2023, 11:21 AMโ€ข5 min read

Players to watch out for at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 : Part 1

The FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 is just around the corner, starting from July 20 and happens to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand. Women's football has reached extraordinary heights in the last decade or so and therefore FIFA has decided to make the tournament consist of 32 teams, like the men's, for the first time in the history of Women's Football. So we've created a list of players to watch out for at this year's World Cup because they're gonna light this tournament up.

Check out the full squad of all 32 teams at FIFA Women's World Cup 2023.

Players to watch out for at FIFA Women's World Cup 2023

This tournament is either going to be a last chance for the Veterans to add something more to their legacy or a stepping stone to a brighter future for the young-emerging talents. So here are the players to watch out for at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, in no particular order.

Ada Hegerberg, Norway

Ada Hegerberg | Norway | Sportz Point |
Ada Hegerberg will try to win Norway their second ever World Cup. (Photo by Reuters)

The Lyon striker was the first-ever recipient of the Ballon d'Or Feminin and has also scored the most no. of goals in the Champions League. She was instrumental in Lyon's Champions League success in 2022 and would like to carry on with the same form for Norway.

Ada Hegerberg has scored 43 goals in 76 appearances for her country. In the World Cups, she has chipped in with 3 goals in 4 matches. Despite making her debut in 2011, the Norwegian has only featured in a single World Cup, so she would like to make the most of it in this one.

Lucy Bronze, England

Lucy Bronze | England | Sportz Point |
Lucy Bronze will be hoping to help England win their first Women's World Cup this summer (Photo by Bradley Collyer/PA/PA Wire)

The England international is one of the most decorated players in the world of football. She has probably won it all for the clubs she played for and with winning the UEFA Women's Euro 2022 with England, the only thing remains to be added in her trophy cabinet is the World Cup.

The Barcelona right back is fluid in her position and can also play in the midfield region, if necessary. Over the years, she has gained a lot of experience which allows her to understand the game better than most players on the pitch. So she would have to play a big role for England to have a good run at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023.

Lena Oberdorf, Germany

Lena Oberdorf | Germany | Sportz Point |
Lena Oberdorf for Germany. (Photo by Fifpro)

The 21-year old is one of the most exciting talents in the world of football right now. Oberdorf has the capability to play in the midfield region and as a centre back, which makes her pretty versatile. Thus making it quite obvious for her to be in the starting XI of the team and work as an Anchor man.

She made her international debut in 2019 and since then, she has played 38 times for her country. The German also became the best young player in the UEFA Women's Euro 2022. So it is pretty clear that she's gonna be one of the players to watch out for in this year's World Cup.

Asisat Oshoala, Nigeria

Asisat Oshoala | Nigeria | Sportz Point |
Asisat Oshoala for Nigeria. (Photo by Getty Images)

The Five-time African player of the year, Asisat Oshoala is set to bring her country glory in the upcoming World Cup. Having won the Champions League final this season with Barcelona, she's full of confidence and would look to work her magic for Nigeria too. The whole of Nigeria is relying on her to deliver because she's their best player and one of the best in the world too.

She has scored only 2 goals in 6 World Cup matches and is expected to do better in this World Cup and guide her team out of the group stages. She had a great season with Barcelona and would like to carry on with that form.

Yui Hasegawa, Japan

Yui Hasegawa | Sportz Point | Japan |
Yui Hasegawa is gonna be very important for Japan in this year's World Cup. (Photo by Masashi Hara/Getty Images)

Hasegawa has been immense for Manchester City and is also an integral part of Japan's midfield. The 26-year old has scored 14 goals in 65 appearances for Japan and is ready to add some more to her tally in this World Cup. Over the years she has played for different clubs in different clubs which helped her in being one of the most technically sorted players in Women's football.

She would like to bring Japan success in this World Cup as the last two ones were disappointing campaigns for the Asian giants. Japan's World Cup campaign would depend on Hasegawa's performance, such is the importance of hers in this Japanese side. She would have to take up additional responsibility in the absence of some senior players from the team and show some leadership qualities when the team is down.

Next Article

7 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026

Even though the number of countries participating in the World Cup would increase, there is a chance that a few well-known footballing nations might miss the flight to the FIFA World Cup 2026.

May 28, 2025, 5:29 AMโ€ข6 min read

7 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 | sportzpoint.com

The FIFA World Cup 2026, which is set to be the biggest with a record 48 teams, is just one year away. After the huge success of FIFA World Cup 2022, where the world saw an outstanding final between winners Argentina and runners-up France, the next edition is gearing up to break more records. 

But, even though the number of countries participating in the World Cup would increase, there is a chance that a few well-known footballing nations might miss the flight to the FIFA World Cup 2026, in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Today, we will talk about those countries which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

7. Austria

7 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Austria | sportzpoint.com

Austria under Ralf Rangnick surprised everyone with their high pressing game, beating teams like the Netherlands and Poland in Euro 2024. However, their high-pressing game might not give them great results in the USA. Moreover, their Bundesliga talents are also above their peak age. 

Austria have not started their FIFA World Cup Qualifiers campaign at the moment, and Bosnia-Herzegovina have already taken a 6-point lead in the Group H points table. So, it might be tough for them if they make any silly mistakes during the qualifiers. 

Group H
P W D L GD Pts
1
BIH
2 2 0 0 2 6
2
ROU
2 1 0 1 3 3
3
CYP
2 1 0 1 1 3
4
AUT
0 0 0 0 0 0
5
SMR
2 0 0 2 -6 0

6. Croatia

7 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Croatia | sportzpoint.com

Although Luka Modric and company surprised everyone with a runners-up finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and a third-place finish in 2022, the former Real Madrid great would be 40 during the World Cup. So, we can not expect Modric to take his team over the line alone. 

Although they have a defender like Josko Gvardiol, the entire squad is getting aged, and they are already six points behind teams like the Czech Republic and Montenegro, even before starting their FIFA World Cup Qualifiers campaign.

So, they also have very little room for any mistakes. 

Group L
P W D L GD Pts
1
CZE
2 2 0 0 5 6
2
MNE
2 2 0 0 3 6
3
CRO
0 0 0 0 0 0
4
FRO
2 0 0 2 -2 0
5
GIB
2 0 0 2 -6 0

5. Chile

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Chile | sportzpoint.com

Chile were once considered one of the toughest South American teams with Copa America victories in 2015 and 2016. But those times are gone now for them. 

They still depend on veteran stars like Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez, who are at the fag end of their careers. With just two wins in 14 South American qualifiers and a paltry nine goals scored, Chile are currently bottom of the points table. 

With Chile being five points adrift of a play-off spot, they might not make it to the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Rank Team P W D L Pts
1 Argentina 14 10 1 3 31
2 Ecuador 14 7 5 2 23
3 Uruguay 14 5 6 3 21
4 Brazil 14 6 3 5 21
5 Paraguay 14 5 6 3 21
6 Colombia 14 5 5 4 20
7 Venezuela 14 3 6 5 15
8 Bolivia 14 4 2 8 14
9 Peru 14 2 4 8 10
10 Chile 14 2 4 8 10

4. Qatar

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026- Qatar | sportzpoint.com

The 2022 FIFA World Cup hosts created history by losing all three group games, becoming the first host nation to do so. However, after back-to-back Asian Cup victories, they were well on track to qualify for the 2026 World Cup on merit.

But, after winning only three of the eight third-round Asian qualifiers matches, they are now behind Iran and Uzbekistan in the group. 

Although there is a fourth round of safety for them, it is not guaranteed that they will qualify from there.  

Group A
P W D L GD Pts
1
IRN
8 6 2 0 9 20
2
UZB
8 5 2 1 4 17
3
UAE
8 4 1 3 7 13
4
QAT
8 3 1 4 -5 10
5
KGZ
8 2 0 6 -6 6
6
PRK
8 0 2 6 -9 2

3. Senegal

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Pape Sarr's Senegal | sportzpoint.com

Senegal, the African football giants, struggled a bit after the departure of coach Aliou Cisse. They had shown great determination during the FIFA World Cup 2022, but after Cisse's departure, they seem to be fading. 

Their senior stars, Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly, now play in the Saudi Pro League and are not at their prime as well. It will be up to their youngsters, like Pape Sarr and Nicolas Jackson, to take them home.

Read Also | 10 most successful African Players with most goals in the UEFA Champions League

But they are now behind DR Congo by a point in qualifying. So, any mistake from them could sweep away the dreams of the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

Group B
P W D L GD Pts
1
COD
6 4 1 1 5 13
2
SEN
6 3 3 0 7 12
3
SDN
6 3 3 0 6 12
4
TOG
6 0 4 2 -3 4
5
SSD
6 0 3 3 -8 3
6
MTN
6 0 2 4 -7 2

2. Cameroon

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Onana's Cameroon | sportzpoint.com

Cameroon are Africa's most frequent World Cup participants and has always brought a great flair to the World Cups. But, despite having talents like Andre Onana and Bryan Mbeumo, they have dropped points against Libya, Angola, and Eswatini.

They are currently one point behind Cape Verde in the Group D points table of CAF qualifiers. 

Group D
P W D L GD Pts
1
CPV
6 4 1 1 2 13
2
CMR
6 3 3 0 8 12
3
LBY
6 2 2 2 -1 8
4
ANG
6 1 4 1 0 7
5
MRI
6 1 2 3 -4 5
6
SWZ
6 0 2 4 -5 2

1. Nigeria

5 big footballing nations which can miss the FIFA World Cup 2026 - Nigeria | sportzpoint.com

It would be a shame if a team with Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface as their attacking trio does not qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026. However, despite having a good side, they have underperformed and won only six matches, trailing South Africa by six points in Group C.

Group C
P W D L GD Pts
1
RSA
6 4 1 1 5 13
2
RWA
6 2 2 2 0 8
3
BEN
6 2 2 2 -1 8
4
NGA
6 1 4 1 1 7
5
LES
6 1 3 2 -1 6
6
ZIM
6 0 4 2 -4 4

Next Article

Best 10 Women's Footballers in the World Right Now

Who are the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now making an impact globally? Find out who makes their way to the list with Aitana Bonmati topping the chart.

May 4, 2025, 3:35 PMโ€ข8 min read

Best 10 Women's Footballers in the World Right Now | sportzpoint.com

Football knows no gender, and the talented women are proving that with their breathtaking gameplay. The world of women's football is setting new standards which has made it difficult to pick the best ones.

Based on the current landscape of the sport, check out the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now.

10. Lauren James 

Lauren James is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now | sportzpoint.com
Lauren James celebrating her goal in a match against Aston Villa in 2022. Image | Pinterest 
  • National Team: England
  • Club: Chelsea
  • Position: Forward
  • Goals: 65

Lauren James is an English footballer who plays as a forward for Chelsea in the WSL. She has won the PFA Women's Young Player of the Year award in 2022-23 for her exceptional skills at a young age.

She previously played for Arsenal and Manchester United and switched to Chelsea in 2021. She has scored a total of 58 goals in 155 appearances across all clubs.

Lauren plays a major role in the England women's team, having 7 international goals in 27 appearances for England.

Read Also | Chelsea Women sign Naomi Girma for a world-record transfer fee

9. Klara Bรผhl

Klara Bรผhl is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now | sportzpoint.com
Klara Bรผhl adding a goal to their victory of 6-0 against Morocco in FIFA World Cup 2023. Image | Pinterest 
  • National Team: Germany
  • Club: Bayern Munich
  • Position: Forward 
  • Goals: 92

Klara Bรผhl is a professional german player who plays as left winger or forward. She is 17 year old and is considered as one of the best young wingers in Europe.

She was a part of SC Freiburg for four years before joining FC Bayern Munich in 2020. Klara has scored 65 goals in 230 appearances for clubs, and 27 international goals in 65 appearances for Germany.

Read Also: 10 Best Women's Football Players and Leagues You Must Watch in 2025

8. Salma Paralluelo

Salma Paralluelo is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now | sportzpoint.com
Salma Paralluelo after scoring a goal Atlรฉtico de Madrid Femenino in 2024. Image | Instagram 
  • National Team: Spain
  • Club: FC Barcelona
  • Position: Forward
  • Goals: 99

The Spanish left winger, Salma Paralluelo, is a born champion, with all three 3 World Cups to her name. She started her career as a sprinter and holds several records in the categories of under 16 and 18.

Salma won the FIFA Women's World Cup with the Spanish senior team in 2023, the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2020, and FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2018. She also won the U-17 UEFA U-17 Women's Championship in 2018.

Salma has scored 85 goals in 125 club appearances and 14 goals in 35 appearances for Spain.

Read Also | Sarina Wiegman dedicates Uefa Women's Coach of the Year award to Spain players

7. Linda Caicedo

Linda Caicedo is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now I sportzpoint.com
Linda Caicedo after scoring a goal against Germany in FIFA Women's World Cup 2023. Image | FIFPro
  • National Team: Colombia
  • Club: Real Madrid 
  • Position: Forward
  • Goals: 46

Linda Caicedo is a Colombian footballer who has reached commendable milestones at a young age of 20. She plays as a forward for Real Madrid, and has been associated with football legends like Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham, Trinity Rodman for commercial ad campaigns.

She played for Amรฉrica Cali and Deportivo Cali before joining Real Madrid, and scored a total of 33 goals in 92 appearances across all of them.

Linda has scored 13 goals to her name in 42 appearances for Colombia.

6. Alessia Russo

Alessia Russo is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now I sportzpoint.com
Alessia Russo after scoring a goal in a Arse's 4-1 WSL win over Chelsea in 2023. Image | Facebook 
  • National Team: England
  • Club: Arsenal
  • Position: Forward
  • Goals: 87

Alessia Russo is a professional footballer who plays for England and the WSL club Arsenal as a forward. She has exceptional records, including being awarded the player of the month and goal of the month for Arsenal.

Alessia is known for her aggressive gameplay and match-winning abilities. She played for other clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United before, and was also the top scorer twice.

Her club goals count to 66 in 138 appearances across all clubs and 21 in 49 appearances for England.

Read Also: Football Facts: Top 10 Players With Most Goal Contributions In A Season Since 2000

5. Khadija Shaw

Khadija Shaw is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now I sportzpoint.com
Khadija Shaw in action for Manchester City in a WSL match against Liverpool. Image | womenfootball.blog
  • National Team: Jamaica
  • Club: Manchester City 
  • Position: Forward
  • Goals: 182

The all-time top scorer, Khadija Shaw, is one of the world's best strikers from Jamaica, who also plays as a forward for Manchester City.

Khadija holds the record for the most hat-tricks in the history of the Women's Super League. She scored 125 goals in her 144 club appearances and 57 goals in 44 appearances for Jamaica!

She was named The Guardian Footballer of the Year in 2018 as a tribute to her legendary contributions in football.

4. Alexia Putellas

alexia putellas is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now I sportzpoint.com
Alexia putellas in action for Spain in a football match. Image | Business Insider 
  • National Team: Spain
  • Club: FC Barcelona 
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Goals: 260

Alexis Putellas is a Spanish midfielder or forward who currently plays for Barcelona. She is the captain of Barcelona and has won all the individual European football awards.

Alexis is widely appreciated for her style of play and aura. She has previously played for Espanyol and Levante, having a total of 226 goals in 515 appearances across all clubs. 

She scored 34 goals for the Spanish National Team in 130 appearances. Alexis also won Ballon d'Or Fรฉminin for two consecutive years in 2021 and 2022.

3. Caroline Graham Hansen

Caroline Graham Hansen is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now I sportzpoint.com
Caroline Graham Hansen during a match playing for Barcelona. Image | BBC
  • National Team: Norway 
  • Club: FC Barcelona 
  • Position: Winger
  • Goals: 225

Caroline Graham Hansen is a Norwegian footballer who is one of the best wingers in the world. She plays for Barcelona and has won prestigious awards like Statoil Talent Award of the Year and others.

Hansen has exceptional dribbling and passing skills, which never fail to amaze the fans. She played for other clubs like Stabรฆk and Wolfsburg and scored 180 goals in all 404 appearances.

Her goals count to 45 in 95 international caps for Norway.

Read Also: Players with the Most Hat-tricks in International football (Male and Female)

2. Sophia Smith

Sophia Smith is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now I sportzpoint.com
Sophia Smith celebrating her goal against Vietnam in World Cup Opener in 2023. Image | The Today Show
  • National Team: USA
  • Club: Portland Thorns
  • Position: Forward 
  • Goals: 74

Sophia Smith is an American footballer who plays as a forward for the team. She plays for the NWSL club Portland Thorns and was named the most valuable player for them, along with the Golden Boot, in 2022.

Sophia scored 3 goals in the Paris Olympics 2024 for the US National Team. She earned her national team cap in 2020 and became the youngest player to debut for the US Women's National Team.

She scored 50 goals in 95 appearances for Portland Thorns FC and 24 goals in 58 appearances for the USA. 

Her contributions in the world of football makes her way to the list of best 10 women's footballers in the world right now.

1. Aitana Bonmatรญ 

Aitana Bonmatรญ is one of the best 10 women's footballers in the world right now I sportzpoint.com
Aitana Bonmatรญ celebrates after scoring a goal for Barcelona in the Champions League Final in 2024. Image | Pinterest 
  • National Team: Spain
  • Club: FC Barcelona 
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Goals: 134

Aitana Bonmatรญ is a Spanish footballer who plays as a midfielder for FC Barcelona. She is one of the greatest of all time in football history. Her elegant style of play is a treat to the eyes. 

The Spanish National team captain won the Ballon d'Or Fรฉminin, Laureus World Sports Award, and Golden Player Woman Award for her incredible 2023 season for Spain and Barcelona. She is the first women's player to win The Best, Ballon d'Or, UEFA Player of the Year and World Cup Golden Ball in the same year

Bonmati was the Player of the tournament in the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 as Spain lifted their maiden Women's World Cup title

She scored 104 goals in 289 appearances for Barcelona and 30 international goals for Spain.

Honorary Mention: Mary Earps

Mary Earps is one of the best footballers in the world right now I sportzpoint.com
Mary Earps celebrating a goal save during a match for England. Image | FIFPro

The legendary English goalkeeper, Mary Earps, is a name honorary mention for this list. She plays for PSG and is considered to have the safest pair of hands when it comes to football. Earps' legendary performance in the UEFA Euro 2022 will always be remembered in the history of English football, as they lifted the European Championship. 

Earps played for a total of 11 clubs, including Manchester United and became the first goalkeeper to reach 50 clean sheets in the WSL

Earps received the Golden Glove Award for her record-breaking 14 clean sheets in 2024 for Manchester United. She is a two-time FIFA Best and Golden Glove winner. 

Her iconic contributions deserves a special place in the list of best 10 women's footballers in the world right now.

Next Article

IWL 2024-25: East Bengal FC clinch their maiden title; Gokulam finish as runners-up

East Bengal FC cemented their status as IWL 2024-25 champions with a commanding 3-0 victory over Gokulam Kerala FC at the East Bengal ground on Friday.

Apr 18, 2025, 3:53 PMโ€ข2 min read

IWL 2024-25: East Bengal FC clinch their maiden title; Gokulam finish as runners-up | sportzpoint.com

East Bengal FC cemented their status as IWL 2024-25 champions with a commanding 3-0 victory over Gokulam Kerala FC at the East Bengal ground on Friday.

Already assured of the title before kickoff, the Red and Golds showcased their supremacy by defeating every team in the league en route to the championship, with all three goals coming in an explosive first half.

Read Also | Exclusive Shreya Hooda: Best Goalkeeper in IWL & NFC, National team and the World Cup dream

Elshaddai Acheampong

The star of the show was Elshaddai Acheampong, who opened the scoring in the 27th minute. After missing earlier chances, including a header from five yards in the 19th minute, the Ghanaian forward made amends with a clinical finish, chipping the goalkeeper after a deft move past defenders following a pass from Anju Tamang.

Read Also | 10 Best Women's Football Players and Leagues You Must Watch in 2025

IWL 2024-25: East Bengal FC clinch their maiden title; Gokulam finish as runners-up

Her poacherโ€™s instinct shone again in the 37th minute, tapping in a cross from Karthika Angamuthu at the back post to double the lead. Minutes before halftime, Soumya Guguloth sealed the rout in the 42nd minute, rounding the keeper to score after a perfectly timed through ball.

Read Also | Beatrice Chebet becomes the first woman to run 5km under 14 minutes in Barcelona

Despite the title already in hand, East Bengal displayed remarkable professionalism, dominating possession and stifling Gokulam from the outset. The second half saw Gokulam mount a brief challenge, testing goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu with a long-range effort, but the champions held firm. This win marked the only team East Bengal had yet to beat this season, completing a flawless campaign.

The victory underscored East Bengalโ€™s dominance throughout the season, blending skill, composure, and relentless attacking play.

IWL 2024-25: Gokulam Kerala finished as runners-up | sportzpoint.com

For Gokulam, the defeat highlighted their struggle against the leagueโ€™s top side, as East Bengal celebrated a perfect end to their triumphant IWL 2024-25 journey.

Next Article

FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams qualified so far

The World Cup presents the greatest chance for players to fulfill a lifelong dream of representing their nations on the global stage, with another edition nearby Sportz Point presents the countries that have booked a spot in the final

Mar 26, 2025, 8:30 AMโ€ข7 min read

FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams qualified so far-sportzpoint.com
World Champions Argentina qualify for the World Cup 2026. (Image Credit | AP)

The participating teams' line-up for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has started taking shape, as Iran and Argentina have booked their place from the qualification round into the finals of the tournament.

In 2022, the FIFA World Cup provided an unforgettable experience for over 1 billion viewers who tuned in. Lionel Messi-led Argentina to victory, giving the nation moments of joy and a fitting tribute to the late Diego Maradona while solidifying his place among players who have won every major trophy. 

Read Also: Europe's Top International Goalscorers: Cristiano Ronaldo extends his lead

Key Details on the FIFA World Cup 2026

Image
Official Logo: FIFA World Cup 2026.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and his team in their bid to improve the quality of the World Cup and promote inclusivity increased the number of teams that will participate in the World Cup from an initial 32 teams to 48 teams.

The teams will be split into 12 groups of 4 teams, with the top 2 of each group and the 8 best third-placed teams progressing to a new Round of 32

The tournament will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be jointly hosted by 16 cities in three North American countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The tournament will be the first hosted by three nations and the first North American World Cup since 1994 and will be the first World Cup since 2002 to be hosted by more than one nation.

Read Also: FIFA World Cup 2026: The groups are set for the European qualifiers

How Do Teams Qualify for the World Cup?

Qualification for the World Cup is done based on the regions of the World. Each  regional Confederation is responsible for its qualification tournament, which will consist of at least one round of competition using the following formats  

  • Confederations can use a League format in which each team in a group plays all other teams in their group twice โ€“ once at home and once away.
  • A single round-robin format in which each team in a group plays all other teams in their group once, with the venues either drawn at random or assigned by the confederation with the agreement of the playing association
  • A Knockout format in which each team in a round plays one other team over two legs once at home and once away.
  • With FIFA's permission, a tournament is held in one of the participating nations or neutral territory.
  • With FIFA's permission, a single-leg knockout format.

Europe has 16 slots, Asia has 8 slots with one extra from playoffs making it 9, Africa has 9 slots with one extra coming from playoffs, South America has 6 with one extra coming from playoffs making a total of 7, North America has 6 slots with 3 already taken due to the host nations.

Teams That Have Qualified

With qualifications still ongoing the only nations that have qualified are the host nations namely the United States of America, Mexico, and Canada qualification process for the World Cup will be ongoing till the end of November 2025, and till then teams will be struggling to qualify.

1. The USA

USMNT Meta

Despite not predominantly being a football nation, the United States Menโ€™s National Team (USMNT) has managed to establish a formidable team with the likes of Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun.

The appointment of Argentinian Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach shows some sign of intent that the country intends to go as far as possible in the World Cup.

Read Also: 10 Footballers Who Retired And Came Back

2. Mexico

Sports LIVE Today, March 24: Mexico Crowned CONCACAF Nations League Champs;  Oklahoma City Thunder Win 6th Straight NBA Game
Mexico have won the Concacaf Nations League 2025.

Mexico has qualified for every World Cup in the past decade, but playing on home soil will give them the advantage of fan support. While they may be without their veteran goalkeeper Ochoa, who has been crucial in past tournaments, they remain a team not to be underestimated.

Read Also | 5 Craziest Football Transfers of All-time

3. Canada

Canada beats USMNT to seal 3rd place in Nations League | theScore.com

Canada had a memorable 2022 World Cup in Qatar, highlighted by their surprising win against Belgium. However, they lost their remaining group games to Morocco and Croatia, leading to their early exit from the tournament.

Known for their attacking football, Canada relies on pace in midfield and attack, with Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies being key to their World Cup ambitions.

Teams from the Qualifier Rounds

4. Japan

Japan become first nation to qualify for World Cup as Kamada, Kubo strike
(Image Credit | AP)

Japan has become the first team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup from the qualification round. On March 20, Thursday, Hajime Moriyasu's side beat Bahrain 2-0 in Group C of the AFC World Cup qualifiers.

Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo scored in the second half to inspire the Samurai Blue to ensure their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance, guaranteeing a top-two finish in the qualifiers standings.

Japan surprised the world with their impressive run in the 2022 World Cup, before bowing out from the Round of 16 in a narrow penalty shoot-out defeat against eventual third-place finishers Croatia. However, Japan defeated both Germany and Spain in the group stage to march onto the next round.

5. New Zealand

The New Zealand All Whites

New Zealand has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the third time with a 3-0 home win over New Caledonia in the OFC Qualifiers Final on Monday, March 24.

Three second-half goals from Michael Boxall, Kosta Barbarouses, and Elijah led New Zealand to a comfortable 3-0 win at Eden Park in Auckland. This win marks the All Whites' return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010 when they registered three draws against Slovakia, Italy, and Paraguay in South Africa.

For the first time, the All Whites qualified directly for a World Cup, as Oceania received an automatic spot in next yearโ€™s 48-team tournament, rather than having to go through an intercontinental play-off as they did in the past.

6. Iran

FIFA World Cup 2026 qualified teams, which nations are in, Iran join Japan,  New Zealand and North American co-hosts
(Image Credit | AFP)

Iran have become the second Asian side to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals following a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan on March 25 in the third round of the AFC World Cup Qualifiers Group A.

Mehdi Taremi's brace secured a point for Iran to stay atop the group A table with 20 points in 8 matches, securing the guaranteed top two finish in the group stage. On the other hand, Uzbekistan is just one victory away from their inaugural World Cup appearance.

Despite the qualification format being made easier for Asia due to the expanded 48-team World Cup, Iran has sealed the passage to their fourth World Cup finals in a row, and seventh in their history.

In the AFC Qualifiers, the top two teams qualify directly for the World Cup, while the teams finishing third and fourth in the three Asian groups will enter an additional qualifying round.

7. Argentina 

Argentine players celebrate their victory over Brazil during a CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match, Buenos Aires, Argentina, March 25, 2025. (EPA Photo)
(Image Credit | EPA)

The reigning World Champions have stormed into the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a 4-1 crushing over eternal rivals Brazil in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers on March 26. 

Argentina produced a bolstering performance, beating the Selecaos 4-1, powered by goals from Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Giuliano Simeone. Matheus Cunha netted the only goal for Brazil.

La Albiceleste currently top the table with 31 points in 14 matches, 16 points clear of seventh-placed Venezuela than the required seven points at this point.

Next Article

UEFA Nations League 2025 Semifinals: Everything you need to know about the fixtures

In this article, get to know everything about the fixtures, dates, and teams and everything you need to know about the UEFA Nations League Semifinals 2025.

Mar 24, 2025, 1:47 PMโ€ข3 min read

UEFA Nations League 2025 Semifinals: Everything you need to know about the fixtures-sportzpoint.com

The UEFA Nations League Quarterfinals concluded on March 24 and four teams have secured their spot in the semifinals, Germany, Spain, Portugal, and France.

With the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League finals knocking at the door, let's take a look at the fixtures. 

UEFA Nations League Semifinals

1. France vs Spain

  • France eliminated Croatia after knocking them out in a penalty shootout (5-4) to secure their spot into the semis. Their match was tied 2-2 forcing them to move on penalties.
  • Spain had the last laugh as they knocked out the Netherlands after winning the penalty shootout 5-4. The game was tied too at 3-3 during the extra time.

Highlights

First leg: A late injury-minute equalizer from Mikel Merino helped Spain salvage a thrilling 2-2 draw against the Netherlands

Second Leg: Spain vs Netherlands UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals 2nd leg LIVE Updates: Spain goes to semis in penalty shootout

2. Portugal vs Germany

  • Germany was the only team to advance in regulation over the two legs against Italy. They defeated Italy on a 5-4 aggregate as they reached the semis.
  • Portugal got the better of Denmark as they defeated them 5-3 on aggregate with the help of Cristiano Ronaldo's 929th career goal and Fransico Trincao's late brace.

Highlights

Germany vs Italy

First Leg: Germany came from behind to beat Italy 2-1 at San Siro in the first leg of the UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-final

Second Leg: Germany vs Italy UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-Finals 2nd leg Highlights | Italy nets three in the second half to level the scoreline; Germany enters the semis after a breathtaking clash | FT GER 3-3 (AGG 5-4)

Portugal vs Denmark

First Leg: Denmark vs Portugal Highlights UEFA Nations League 2024-25 Quarterfinals Leg 1: Denmark clinched a victory over Portugal in the first leg thanks to Rasmus Hojlund's late goal | DEN 1-0 POR

Second Leg: Portugal vs Denmark Highlights UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter finals Second Leg: Trincao's brace helped Portugal to secure their spot in the Semifinals | POR 5-2 DEN (AGG. DEN 3-5 POR)

Broadcasting Details

Football fans from India can watch the UEFA Nations League 2025 Semifinals match LIVE on Sony Ten 3 TV Channel on Television and the Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription. 

Fixtures Details

The UEFA Nations League semifinals will be played over one leg on the 5th and 6th of June as the final takes place on the 8th of June. The losing sides from both matches will get to play another match for third place.

  • Spain vs France (6th June, 12:15 am IST)
  • Portugal vs Germany (5th June, 12:15 am IST)

Final Details

The final of the UEFA Nations League will take place on the 8th of June, 2025.

Next Article

Latest Stories

Subscribe Newsletter

Get the latest sports updates and news delivered directly to your inbox.