World Cup 2026 Qualified Teams, Arab Nations & Favourites

The 2026 edition set records for the number of teams and Arab representation. Here are the qualified teams, the Arab nations and their groups, and the favourites for the title.

How many teams are in the World Cup 2026?

For the first time, 48 teams (up from 32) in 12 groups. Qualifying is complete and the final draw was held in December 2025, so all groups are known.

Which Arab nations qualified for the World Cup 2026?

A record eight Arab nations qualified:

• Egypt, Group G (Belgium, New Zealand, Iran).
• Morocco, Group C (Brazil, Scotland, Haiti).
• Tunisia, Group F (Netherlands, Japan, and the European playoff winner).
• Algeria, Group J (Argentina, Austria, Jordan).
• Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, and Jordan (Jordan's first-ever World Cup).

An unprecedented Arab presence makes this the most-watched edition in the region. Follow predictions for the Arab teams.

Egypt's group at the World Cup 2026

Egypt is in Group G with Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran, led by captain Mohamed Salah, who enters the tournament closing in on Egypt's all-time international scoring record. Follow Egypt's matches and predictions.

Who are the favourites to win the World Cup 2026?

The usual frontrunners include holders Argentina, alongside France, Spain, Brazil, and England. But the 48-team format and longer run could bring surprises. This is analysis, not a guarantee, follow odds and predictions before each round.

Will Messi, Ronaldo, and Barcelona play in the World Cup 2026?

• Messi: Argentina qualified, but whether Messi personally plays depends on final selection and fitness, not officially confirmed at the time of writing.
• Ronaldo: Portugal are among the contenders, and Ronaldo's participation likewise depends on selection and fitness.
• Barcelona: the World Cup is a tournament for national teams, not clubs, so Barcelona as a club does not take part, though some of its players may feature with their national teams. (The club tournament is the separate "Club World Cup.")

Who organizes the World Cup 2030?

The 2030 edition is set to be hosted mainly by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, with three centenary matches in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay.

Where to watch and bet

All matches air exclusively on beIN Sports (plus TOD and beIN CONNECT). Follow fixtures on the matches page, free tips, and to bet, play on Arba777 with EGP support.

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