November 18 – The final rounds of the European World Cup qualification groups A and G have just concluded, with Germany and the Netherlands both securing decisive home victories to claim their spots in the 2026 World Cup. So far, 34 direct qualification berths for the 2026 World Cup have been confirmed, with 14 spots still up for grabs.

2026 World Cup Directly Qualified Teams:

- Host Nations: United States, Mexico, Canada

- Europe: England, France, Croatia, Portugal, Norway, Germany, Netherlands

- South America: Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay

- Asia: Japan, Iran, South Korea, Uzbekistan, Jordan, Australia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia

- Africa: Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, Cape Verde, South Africa, Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal

- Oceania: New Zealand

Tonight's Key European Qualifying Matches:

- Group E – 3:45 CET: Spain vs. Turkey

 Spain currently holds a +19 goal difference and leads Turkey by 3 points, with Turkey's goal difference at only +5. For Turkey to overtake Spain and qualify directly, they would need to win by at least 7 goals to surpass Spain on goal difference. Otherwise, Spain will secure direct qualification.

- Group J – 3:45 CET: Belgium vs. Liechtenstein; Wales vs. North Macedonia

 Belgium, facing the underdog Liechtenstein at home, is almost certain to secure direct qualification. Both Wales and North Macedonia are already assured of playoff spots via their Nations League performances.

- Group H – 3:45 CET: Austria vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina

 Austria will qualify directly with at least a draw. A loss would see Bosnia and Herzegovina advance directly, sending Austria to the playoffs.

- Group C – 3:45 CET: Denmark vs. Scotland

 Denmark needs only a draw against Scotland to finish as group winners and qualify directly.