The September international break brings World Cup qualifying to a critical juncture. With only 14 nations currently securing their spot in the expanded 2026 World Cup across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, many more teams are vying for qualification. The tournament`s expansion to 48 teams offers a historic opportunity for numerous nations to debut on the global stage, while others aim to break long-standing qualification droughts.
Globally, while the United States Men`s National Team (USMNT) is exempt from World Cup qualifying as a host, this period is crucial for their preparation, including matches against South Korea and Japan. Elsewhere, European teams such as Italy and Norway face significant qualifying challenges in UEFA, and Concacaf World Cup qualifiers are commencing for nations aiming to join the host countries.
Here are some key storylines to follow during this international break:
Who is the favorite in Concacaf?
With Concacaf`s traditional powerhouses already qualified as hosts, the remaining nations are entering World Cup qualifiers with a fresh perspective. Teams like Jamaica, Panama, and Costa Rica are strong contenders for direct qualification, yet the region`s rising standard means that countries such as Guatemala and Honduras could capitalize on the increased qualification berths, making the fight for North American spots highly unpredictable.
Haaland to book his place in the World Cup?
The presence of global superstars enriches any World Cup, and Norway`s strong start to qualifying could pave the way for Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard to shine in the 2026 tournament. Norway`s last World Cup appearance was in 1998, reaching the Round of 16 in France, and they are eager to end this long absence. Currently boasting a perfect record in UEFA qualification, upcoming matches against Finland and Moldova present opportunities to solidify their position and bring their World Cup dreams closer to reality.
Italy look to avoid missing three straight World Cups
In Group I, contrasting Norway`s strong performance, Italy`s start has been less impressive, with one win and one loss in two matches. Having missed the previous two World Cups, the stakes are incredibly high for the Azzurri to qualify for the expanded 2026 tournament; a third consecutive absence would be disastrous. Under new coach Gennaro Gattuso, formerly of Hajduk Split, Italy must rapidly improve their form to secure qualification before it`s too late.
Brazil need a breakout
While Brazil has already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, coach Carlo Ancelotti`s attacking imprint on the team is still developing. Despite boasting one of the world`s most exciting offensive lineups, they`ve managed only one goal in their last two outings against Ecuador and Paraguay. Ancelotti has notably strengthened the defense, but now faces the challenge of igniting the attack, particularly without Matheus Cunha. Upcoming matches against Chile and Bolivia are expected to yield more goals; a continued struggle in front of net would undoubtedly escalate concerns.
Can the USMNT show up?
Under Mauricio Pochettino, the United States Men`s National Team (USMNT) is eager for a landmark victory. This international break, with matches against South Korea and Japan, presents an opportunity, even as Pochettino uses it to evaluate new talents before finalizing World Cup rosters. Folarin Balogun is set to make his competitive debut under Pochettino, potentially challenging Josh Sargent, who has been in prolific form for Norwich City with five goals in as many games. This period is crucial for the USMNT, and despite the presence of key regulars, the absence of players like Antonee Robinson and Weston McKennie places greater responsibility on leaders such as Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams. Addressing growing anxieties surrounding their World Cup readiness, strong performances here could alleviate concerns, while poor results would only intensify them.
