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Antim Panghal wins World Wrestling Championships 2023 trials in Patiala; Divya and Sarita make a spectacular comeback

Antim recently became the first Indian woman wrestler to defend her title at the U-20 World Cup in Amman. She had also won the Asian Games trials last month.

Aug 26, 2023, 9:05 AM2 min read

Antim Panghal will lead India's charge in the World Wrestling Championships 2023. Image- The Statesman

Antim Panghal on Friday won the World Wrestling Championships 2023 trials in Patiala, earning herself the right to vie for a quota place for next year's Paris Olympics 2024. She will lead India's charge in the tournament. At the same time, Divya Kakran and Sarita Mor overcame the disappointment of Asian Games trials losses to enter the global tournament.

Also Read: United World Wrestling suspends Wrestling Federation of India for not conducting fresh elections

Antim Panghal will lead India's charge in Belgrade. Image- The Statesman

Antim recently became the first Indian woman wrestler to defend her title at the U-20 World Cup in Amman. She had also won the Asian Games trials last month. Manju, Pooja Jat, and Rajni also challenged in the 53kg category in the trials, but Antim secure the berth for the World Wrestling Championships 2023 to be held in Belgrade from 16 September.

Meanwhile, World Championships bronze-medallist Sarita Mor made a stunning comeback after suffering a shock defeat to U-23 World Championships bronze-medallist Mansi Ahlawat in the 57kg trials at the Asian Games last month. But She won the trials at the World Wrestling Championships 2023 to seal her place in the team. Kakran, who had tried her luck in 68kg to 76kg during the Asian Games trials last month, was disappointed in the Asian Games trials. However, in this category, she leveled the score by defeating Railway wrestler Kiran. Kiran had defeated Kakran in the trials of the Asian Games.

On the other hand, Antim Kundu, a silver medalist at the U-20 World Championships, also booked her place in the 65kg category for the World Wrestling Championships 2023.

Also Read: Bajrang Punia and Deepak Punia to skip World Wrestling Championships 2023

World Wrestling Championships 2023 Selection Trials Results:

Greco-Roman Style:

55kg Ajay (Del); 60kg Manish (RSPB); 63kg: Vikram (Mah); 67kg Vinayak (Mah); 72kg: Ankit Gulia (SSCB); 77kg: Gurpreet Singh (PB); 82kg: Sajan (RSPB); 87kg: Manoj Kumar (Har); 97kg: Sailesh (Mah); 130kg: Mehar Singh (SSCB).

Women's wrestling:

50kg: Neelam (UP); 53kg Antim (Har); 55kg: Neha (Del); 57kg: Sarita (RSPB); 59kg: Anjali (Har); 62kg: Manisha (Har); 65kg: Antim (Har); 68kg: Priyanka (Har); 72kg: Jyoti Berwal (Har); 76kg: Divya Kakran (UP). PTI AM AM KHS KHS

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ISSF World Cup: Manu Bhaker misses out on a medal after finishing sixth in women’s 25m pistol final

Paris Olympics medallist Manu Bhaker made it to the ISSF World Cup finals of 25m Pistol event but could not nail a podium finish.

Jun 12, 2025, 11:52 AM2 min read

ISSF World Cup: Manu Bhaker misses out on a medal after finishing sixth in women’s 25m pistol final

Paris Olympics medallist Manu Bhaker reached the finals of the 25m Pistol event at the ongoing ISSF World Cup here but failed to secure podium finishes as India failed to win a single medal on Wednesday.

Manu lost by one point

Two-time Olympic bronze medallist shooter Manu finished sixth in the eight-shooter final of the 25m pistol event after finishing fifth in the qualifying round with a total score of 588. Bhaker shot 290 in precision and a superb 298 in the rapid fire round to aggregate 588 going into the finals. However, the medal round didn’t go as expected, Manu missed the chance to move further in the final.

Sun Yujie captured gold

It was a hat-trick of gold medals for the 20-year-old Sun Yujie of China as she beat Oh Yejin of Korea 38-36. Sun had won the gold medals in the last two World Cups in Buenos Aires and Lima.

Chain Singh placed seventh

In the men’s 50-metre rifle 3-position event, Olympian Chain Singh made the final with an impressive score of 592 but eventually placed seventh. Jon-Hermann Hegg of Norway won gold, which put the team in second place on the medals table, behind China, which has won the other three gold medals so far.

ISSF World Cup: Results so far

Multiple Asian Games medallist Esha Singh finished 11th with a combined ‘precision’ and ‘rapid fire’ score of 585 and could not make it to the eight-shooter final. The other Indian in the fray Simranpreet Kaur Brar tallied 577 to finish 32nd.

Meanwhile, Paris Olympics bronze medallist Swapnil Kusale and Ankush Jadhav shot 587 and 580 to finish 38th and 67th respectively.

In the men’s air pistol on Tuesday, Varun Tomar had made the final but finished sixth. Thus, India has only the bronze medal so far, won by Elavenil Valarivan in women’s air rifle in the ISSF World Cup.

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Most Wickets in ICC Tournament Finals

Mitchell Starc surpassed Mohammed Shami to became the leading wicket taker in ICC finals. So, let's take a look at the bowlers with most wickets in ICC tournament finals.

Jun 12, 2025, 11:25 AM4 min read

Most Wickets in ICC Tournament Finals

Australia's star fast bowler Mitchell Starc added a big achievement to his name on Wednesday by becoming the bowler to take the most wickets in ICC tournament finals. Starc achieved this feat by taking two wickets on the first day of the World Test Championship 2025 final against South Africa at Lord's. Starc, playing his fifth ICC final, has taken 11 wickets so far and is expected to increase it.

Also Read: Highest wicket-takers in WTC 2023-25

With this, Starc also broke the record of Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami as soon as he took the second wicket. This record was earlier in the name of Shami, who had taken 10 wickets in four ICC finals.

So, let's take a look at the bowlers with most wickets in ICC tournament finals.

Most Wickets in ICC Tournament Finals

6. Glenn McGrath | 8 Wickets

Most Wickets in ICC Tournament Finals

The former legendary Australia pacer Glenn McGrath featured in a total of 5 ICC finals for the Baggy Greens and took 8 Wickets for his team. McGrath was one of Australia’s most important players for several years and he always stepped-up big time in finals of major tournaments.

McGrath was the second-highest wicket-taker in the 2002 edition of the ICC tournament with 8 wickets in 3 matches after Muttaih Muralidharan who has claimed 10 wickets in as many games.

5. Kyle Jamieson | 8 Wickets

Most Wickets in ICC Tournament Finals

New Zealand fast bowler Kyle Jamieson also took 8 Wickets in the ICC tournament finals after appearing in 3 innings. In the 2019–2021 World Test Championship Final, Jamieson was named as the man of the match, after taking seven wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings.

4. Ravindra Jadeja | 8 Wickets

Most Wickets in ICC Tournament Finals

Ravindra Jadeja comes fourth on this list. Jadeja’s evolution from a utility player to a match-winner is reflected in his 8 ICC final appearances. In his 8 finals, Jadeja dismissed 8 players in ICC tournament finals.

His all-round prowess was key to India’s Champions Trophy triumph in 2013, where he was the leading wicket-taker. He has since played vital roles in T20 World Cup finals and two successive WTC finals (2021, 2023), as well as the 2025 Champions Trophy. 

3. Trent Boult | 8 Wickets

Most Wickets in ICC Tournament Finals

New Zealand's veteran pacer Trent Boult is true to the 'big-match player' tag with 8 wickets in his 4 ICC Finals. Boult played a massive role in the Kiwis' success in ICC tournaments and gave brilliant bowling performances in the finals as well.

Boult was also the joint leading wicket taker at the 2015 Cricket World Cup. In 2018, he became the third bowler for New Zealand to take a hat-trick in ODIs.

2. Mohammed Shami | 10 Wickets

Most Wickets in ICC Tournament Finals

India's star bowler Mohammed Shami now comes second in this list. In four ICC finals, Shami has taken 10 wickets at an average of 38.90, an economy rate of 3.95 and best bowling figures of 4/76 in the WTC final 2021 against New Zealand.

Shami is also the leading wicket-taker among Indian bowlers in ODI World Cups and also led all bowlers in the 2023 edition with 24 wickets in seven outings. He continued his magical run in ICC events with a five-wicket haul in his maiden Champions Trophy game (ongoing contest against Bangladesh).

Also Read: Most Runs in WTC 2023-25

1. Mitchell Starc | 11* Wickets

Most Wickets in ICC Tournament Finals

Australia's pace ace Mitchell Starc has became the highest wicket-taker in ICC tournament finals. The left-arm quick achieved the milestone during the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord's. Starc, playing in his fifth ICC final, has now taken 11 wickets across tournament deciders.

The milestone came in style as Starc struck early in South Africa's second innings, cleaning up Aiden Markram for a duck. He followed it up with the dismissal of Ryan Rickelton for 16, ending Day 1 with figures of 2/10 in a fiery spell.

He also became the joint second-highest wicket taker in ICC knockout games. He is sharing the spot with former Aussie legend Glenn McGrath and Mohammed Shami, who each have taken 22 wickets. The top spot is with former Sri Lankan great Muttiah Muralitharan, who has 23 wickets.

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Ellyse Perry predicts the winner of WTC 2025

The epic Australia vs South Africa showdown at Lord's is currently heating up on Day 2. Who will be the ultimate champion? Get ready to see how cricket icon Ellyse Perry predicts the winner of WTC 2025 when asked the same.

Jun 12, 2025, 10:44 AM2 min read

Ellyse Perry predicts the winner of WTC 2025 | sportzpoint.com

The ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 Final is in full swing at Lord's, an intense battle unfolding between cricketing giants Australia and South Africa. As Day 2 heats up, legendary all-rounder Ellyse Perry has stepped forward to reveal her predictions and insights.

Which team does the Australian icon believe has the edge? It it now time to find out.

Here's what Ellyse Perry predicts the winner of WTC 2025:

Ellyse Perry's WTC 2025 Champion

Ellyse Perry predicts the winner of WTC 2025 | sportzpoint.com
Australia in WTC 2023-25. Image | Cricket Times

Ellyse Perry has backed her home nation, Australia, to emerge as the champions of the WTC 2023-25, without hesitation. She clearly has strong faith and confidence in the Australian side and their squad pick for the final, and believes they will take the title home for the 2nd time.

Read Also: Can South Africa escape the "chokers" tag in the WTC Final against Australia?

Perry's picks for individual glory: Smith for runs, Starc for wickets

Ellyse Perry predicts the winner of WTC 2025 | sportzpoint.com
Ellyse Perry and Steve Smith. Image | ESPNcricinfo

Perry has also revealed the key performers she expects to dominate this monumental clash at Lord's:

  • Most Runs: The Australian batter, Steve Smith, who is currently at the 6th position for most runs in WTC 2023-25 cycle with 1390 runs, will score the most runs in WTC 2025 final, according to Perry. Smith scored 66 runs in Day 1 and was dismissed by Aiden Markram.
  • Most Wickets: Mitchell Starc is the pick for most wickets in WTC Final, who is currently at number 3 at highest wicket-takers list in WTC 2023-25 cycle, having taken 74 wickets. Starc took down both the South African openers in the conclusion of Day 1 in final.
  • Player of the Match: Perry has gone with the wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey as the POTM pick, for his contributions as a middle-order batter and sharp dismissals.

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Football teams with most international trophies

From World Cup to continental championships, discover the titans of global football and their achievements. We bring you the football teams with most international trophies with Argentina leading the pack. Check out who joins them.

Jun 12, 2025, 6:34 AM8 min read

Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com

In the sphere of international football, legacy is not built on sentiment but on unmatched achivement. What truly counts for a national team are the trophies won at the global stage, leaving everyone behind in the race!

This list will provide you an overview of the football teams with most international trophies. Read the full article to know about their dominance in the world of football.

1. Argentina (23 international trophies)

Argentina holds the top place in the list of Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Argentina lifting the FIFA World Cup 2022. Image | Mint

Argentina stands as the titan in international football, having 23 trophies in their cabinet, with a rich legacy shaped by raw talent and passionate play.

Their identity is deeply rooted in the genius of legendary players such as Diego Maradona, whose individual brilliance almost single-handedly sealed the 1986 World Cup, and Lionel Messi, who finally cemented his legacy in 2022 World Cup after years of carrying the team's hope.

These players, along with Alfredo Di Stefano and Gabriel Batistuta have contributed to their style of play.

International trophy cabinet of Argentina:

Tournament Count Years
World Cup 3 1978, 1986, 2022
Copa America 16 1921, 1925, 1927, 1929, 1937, 1941, 1945, 1946, 1947, 1955, 1957, 1959, 1991, 1993, 2021, 2024
Confederations Cup 1 1992
CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions 2 1993, 2022
Panamerican Championship 1 1960

Read Also: Trophies won by Argentina in International Football (Men's)

2. Brazil (20 international trophies)

Brazil holds the second rank on the list of Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Brazil lifting the Confederations Cup in 2013. Image | FIFA

One of the greatest footballing nations, Brazil, holds 20 international trophies in their stunning cabinet. They are widely recognised as a nation that produce players who redefine the sport.

Legendary figures like Pele, Garrincha, and modern maestros like Ronaldinho and Romario, have all contributed to Brazil's success in achieving this milestone. Their contributions have not been just about winning, but about entertaining and inspiring.

International trophy cabinet of Brazil:

Tournament Count Years
World Cup  5 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002
Copa America 9 1919, 1922, 1949, 1989, 1997, 1999, 2004, 2007, 2019
Panamerican Championship 2 1952, 1956
Confederations Cup 4 1997, 2005, 2009, 2013

3. Uruguay (19 international trophies)

Uruguay holds 4th place in the list for Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Uruguay lifts the 2011 Copa America. Image | Mint

Uruguay possesses a truly remarkable legacy in international football, regardless of its small population. They are just one trophy away to reach enter the twenties in their international trophies count, with 19 so far.

Legendary players like Obdulio Varela and Alcides Ghiggia, who had immense contribution in 1950 World Cup win, and more recently, Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez, have all profoundly shaped Uruguay's rich footballing narrative.

International trophy cabinet of Uruguay:

Tournament Count Years
World Cup  2 1930,1950
Copa America 15 1916, 1917, 1920, 1923, 1924, 1926, 1935, 1942, 1956, 1959, 1967, 1983, 1987, 1995, 2011
Panamerican Games 2 2015, 1983

4. Mexico (14 international trophies)

Mexico holds a place in Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Mexico winning the 2023 COMCACAF Gold Cup. Image | Instagram

Mexico holds a proud legacy as the dominant force in CONCACAF football, known for their passionate fan base, technical prowess, and ability to frequently challenge stronger nations.

Hugo Sanchez, Rafael Marquez, and Cuauhtemoc Blanco, are some names served in achieving the 14 international trophies.

International trophy cabinet of Mexico:

Tournament Count Years
CONCACAF Championship/Gold Cup 12 1965, 1971, 1977, 1993, 1996, 1998, 2003, 2009, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023
CONCACAF Nations League 1 2025
Confederations Cup 1 1999

Read Also: 11 players who have won the most trophies in football history

5. USA (9 international trophies)

USA is among the Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
USA lifting the CONCACAF Gold Cup 2021. Image | NDTV

The USA has steadily built a legacy of growing competitiveness and professionalism, establishing itself as a successful team within the CONCACAF region.

Players like Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, and Tim Howard, have elevated the team's standing and inspired a new generation of American footballers. They currently hold the 5th place with 10 international trophies.

International trophy cabinet of the USA:

Tournament Count Years
CONCACAF Championship/ Gold Cup 7 1991, 2002, 2005, 2007, 2013, 2017, 2021
CONCACAF Nations League 3 2021, 2023, 2024

6. France (8 international trophies)

France is among the Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
France lifting the 2018 World Cup. Image | Instagram

France holds the sixth place with 8 international trophies achivement elegantly with the efforts of world-class players and athletic brilliance. From Michel Platini of the 1980s to Kylian Mbappe, an explosive forward who's carrying the winning legacy in recent years, this team have come a long way.

Their contributions have led to some historic victories that shaped French football.

International trophy cabinet of France

Tournament Count Years
World Cup 2 1998, 2018
European Championship 2 1984, 2000
European Nations League 1 2021
CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions 1 1985
Confederations Cup 2 2001, 2003

Read Also: Football facts: Players with most Champions League finals without winning it ever

7. Germany (8 international trophies)

Germany holds the third rank in the list of Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Germany lifting the 2014 World Cup. Image | Sportsnet

Germany's legacy in international football is built on resilience, discipline and strong winning mentality. They have won 8 international trophies which gracefully shine in their cabinet.

Legendary players like Franz Beckenbauer, the elegant "Der Kaiser" who revolutionized the sweeper role; Gerd Muller, the prolific striker; and Lothar Matthaus, a midfield powerhouse, have shaped the team's consistent success.

International trophy cabinet of Germany:

Tournament Count Years
World Cup 4 1954, 1974, 1990, 2014
European Championship 3 1972, 1980, 1996
Confederations Cup 1 2017

8. Egypt (7 international trophies)

Egypt holds a place in the Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Egypt lifts the AFCON in 2010. Image | CAF Online

Egypt holds an unparalleled legacy as the most successful nation in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations, having great consistency and dominance on the continental stage.

The "Pharaohs" are known for their tactical discipline, and ability to perform under pressure in crucial matches, which brought them 7 international trophies.

The most memorable victory for Egypt was their achievement of winning three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations titles in 2006, 2008, and 2010, a feat that cemented their status as the kings of African football.

International trophy cabinet of Egypt:

Tournament Count Years
Africa Cup of Nations 7 1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010

9. Spain (6 international trophies)

Spain is one among the Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Spain lifts the 2010 World Cup. Image | Sportstar

Spain's legacy in international football is linked to their "tiki-taka" style, a philosophy of possession-based, intricate passing football that brought unparallaled success.

This approach led to an era of consistent dominance, including a historic treble from 2008 to 2012. Legendary figures like Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Iker Casillas were instrumental in this golden age.

Recently, the new generation talents like Lamine Yamal and Pedri, has emerged, further contributing to add up the numbers of their international trophies, which currently counts to 6.

International trophy cabinet of Spain:

Tournamanet Count Years
World Cup  1 2010
European Championship 4 1964, 2008, 2012, 2024
European Nations League 1 2023

Read Also: Football Wonderkids: Is Lamine Yamal the best 17-year-old footballer ever?

10. Italy (6 international trophies)

Italy are among the Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Italy lifts the 2006 World Cup. Image | Instagram

Italy won 6 international trophies in their football journey, with four World Cup wins among them. They have the capability to rise when it matters most for the nation.

Legendary players like Paolo Maldini, Gianluigi Buffon, and others have left an incredible mark on the history of team's success. The 2006 FIFA World Cup remains a memorable victory where the Azzurri peaked.

International trophy cabinet of Italy:

Tournament Count Years
World Cup  4 1934, 1938, 1982, 2006
European Championship 2 1968, 2020

11. New Zealand (6 international trophies)

New Zealand is among the Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
New Zealand lifts their 6th OFC Nations Cup in 2024. Image | Pinterest

New Zealand won 6 international trophies and all of them were OFC Nations Cup wins, reflecting their dominance within the Oceania confederation. Their strong team spirit and discipline gets them the ability to qualify for the World Cup despite being a smaller footballing nation.

Their qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where they remained undefeated in the group stage, drawing all 3 of their matches against strong opponents, stands as a particularly memorable achievement.

International trophy cabinet of New Zealand:

Tournament Count Years
OFC Nations Cup 6 1973, 1998, 2002, 2008, 2016, 2024

12. Cameroon (5 international trophies)

Cameroon is among the Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Cameroon lifts the AFCON in 2017. Image | Mint

Cameroon, known as the "Indomitable Lions," has forged a legacy as one of Africa's most successful footballing nations. They have achieved 5 international trophies so far, and are in own by their raw power, athleticism, and a fearless, adventurous approach to the game.

The 1990 FIFA World Cup remains their most memorable victory, where they shocked reigning champions Argentina in the opening match and became the first African team to reach the quarter-finals, with their commendable performances.

International trophy cabinet of Cameroon:

Tournament Count Years
Africa Cup of Nations 5 1984, 1988, 2000, 2002, 2017

Read Also: The most shocking goal misses in Football history

13. Australia (5 international trophies)

Australia is among the Football teams with most international trophies | sportzpoint.com
Australia lifts the AFC Asian Cup in 2015. Image | Socceroos

Australia, also known as "Socceroos," have evolved from a dominant force in Oceania to a competitive presence in Asia and a consistent participant on the global stage of football.

They have won 5 international trophies so far, with players like Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka being the central to their footballing journey.

A standout memorable victory for Australia was winning the AFC Asian Cup on home soil in 2015, that increased their status as a leading footballing nation within the Asian confederation.

International trophy cabinet of Australia:

Tournament Count Years
Asian Cup 1 2015
OFC Nations Cup 4 1980,
1996, 2000, 2004

Next Article

FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams qualified so far

Till now, along with the hosts USA, Mexico and Canada, ten other teams have qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026. For the first time, 48 teams will participate in the World Cup.

Australia qualified for their sixth straight FIFA World Cup - teams which have qualified for FIFA World Cup 2026 - sportzpoint.com
Australia celebrate qualifying for their sixth straight FIFA World Cup 2026.

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 – 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 Men’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

FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams qualified so far - Japan | sportzpoint.com

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 year’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, with the required seven points at this point.

8. Uzbekistan

Group celebration as Uzbekistan qualify for the 2026 World Cup - sportzpoint.com

Uzbekistan qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the 8th team to qualify till now. They have qualified in virtue of finishing in the top two in Group A of the AFC's third-round of qualifiers.

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

This is the first time they have qualified for the FIFA World Cup. Not only that, they are the first Central Asia country to qualify for the grandest stage of football.

9. South Korea

FIFA World Cup 2026: Teams qualified so far - Korea Republic - sportzpoint.com

South Korea qualified for their 11th straight FIFA World Cup after finishing in the top two of the AFC third round qualifiers. Tottenham's Son Heung-min, Wolves' Hwang Hee-chan, Bayern Munich's Kim Min-jae and Paris Saint-Germain's Lee Kang-in all will be ready to star for South Korea in the upcoming World Cup.

10. Jordan

Ali Olwan scored a hat-trick against Oman to take Jordan to their maiden FIFA World Cup - sportzpoint.com
Ali Olwan scored a hat-trick against Oman to take Jordan to their maiden FIFA World Cup

While South Korea sealed their spot at the FIFA World Cup with that 2-0 victory over Iraq, their win also ensured that Jordan will be playing at their first-ever FIFA World Cup next year. 

Ali Olwan's hat-trick has given them a big 3-0 win over Oman, and after South Korea's win, they will now create history at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

In Group B of the AFC Third round qualifiers, Jordan lost only one match and finished in the top two of the group, below South Korea.

11. Australia 

Australia qualified for their sixth straight FIFA World Cup - teams which have qualified for FIFA World Cup 2026 - sportzpoint.com

Socceroos confirmed their place at a sixth successive FIFA World Cup after beating Saudi Arabia by 2-1 in Saudi Arabia. Connor Metcalfe (42), Mitch Duke (48) scored for the Aussies to help them win after falling behind by a 19-minute goal from Abdulrahman Al-Aboud.

Australia have now confirmed the top spot in Group C in the AFC Third round qualifiers. Japan are leading Group C, which have already qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

12. Brazil 

Teams to qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026 - Brazil - sportzpoint.com

Brazil continued their run at the FIFA World Cup after ensuring qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026. They are the only team to qualify for every FIFA World Cup. 

The Selecao defeated Paraguay by 1-0 as Vinicius Jr. handed a special gift to new Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti for his 66th birthday. 

13. Ecuador 

Despite Alan Franco's red card, Ecuador managed a brave, strong 0-0 draw against Peru to ensure their qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

With 25 points, they are currently second in the South American qualification, with 25 points, behind Argentina.

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