The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is narrowing, and this October, the tension is palpable. With just a few matchdays left in the qualifiers, national teams across Europe, Africa, and beyond are either punching their tickets—or watching their dreams slip away.
In Group F, Portugal are on the brink. A gritty 1–0 win over the Republic of Ireland, sealed by a stoppage-time header from Rúben Neves, has put them five points clear of Hungary. With stars like João Félix and Bruno Fernandes in form, Portugal are one win away from securing their place in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Spain continue their flawless run in Group E. Despite missing key players due to injury, they dispatched Georgia with clinical ease. Their next test is Bulgaria, a team still reeling from a heavy defeat to Türkiye. Spain may not mathematically qualify this week, but their dominance is undeniable.
Scotland also took a major step forward, edging Belarus 2–1 in a match that tested their resolve. Goals from Che Adams and Scott McTominay gave the Tartan Army breathing room, though manager Steve Clarke expressed frustration with the team’s lack of sharpness. Still, with momentum on their side, Scotland are inching closer to a long-awaited World Cup return.
But the biggest shock of the week came from the Faroe Islands. In what many are calling the upset of the qualifiers, the tiny North Atlantic nation defeated the Czech Republic 2–1. It’s a result that not only keeps their World Cup dream alive, but also sends a message: no team can be underestimated in this new era of global football.
Elsewhere, England, Nigeria, and France are among the heavyweights who could clinch qualification this week. With the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams, more nations than ever are within reach of the world’s biggest stage. But that also means more pressure, more unpredictability, and more room for underdogs to rise.
As October winds down, every match feels like a final. For some, it’s about sealing destiny. For others, it’s about survival. And for fans around the world, it’s a reminder of why the World Cup remains the most electrifying tournament in sport.