The 2026 FIFA World Cup now has all 48 teams confirmed, closing a historic qualification phase that signals a new era in international football. The tournament, set to take place across United States, Mexico, and Canada, will be the first to feature the expanded format, increasing both competitiveness and global representation. The final ticket was secured by Iraq, who earned a crucial 2-1 victory over Bolivia at the Monterrey stadium.

The match, filled with tension and high stakes, brought the intercontinental playoff stage to a close and confirmed Iraq’s return to football’s biggest stage. For Iraq, this qualification represents far more than just a sporting achievement. The team returns to the World Cup for the first time since 1986, ending a drought of nearly four decades. The victory was celebrated as a symbol of resilience and progress within Asian football.

The game showcased a determined Iraqi side, pressing from the opening minutes and responding effectively under pressure. After a level scoreline, Iraq capitalized on key opportunities and sealed the win with a decisive goal that sparked celebrations among players and fans alike. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of the Congo also made history by defeating Jamaica 1-0 after extra time in Guadalajara.

The match was tightly contested and tactical, but the African side ultimately found the breakthrough when it mattered most. This result marks the nation’s return to the World Cup since 1974, when it competed under the name Zaire. The qualification stands as a historic moment for the country and a major boost for football development across the region. With these results, the list of participating nations is now complete, reinforcing the truly global nature of the 2026 World Cup.

The inclusion of 48 teams promises a more diverse tournament, filled with new stories, rivalries, and opportunities for emerging nations. The football world now turns its attention to one of the most ambitious editions in history, where tradition and renewal will meet on the sport’s grandest stage. Everything is set for the ball to roll once again and for a new chapter in World Cup history to begin.