Which are the Teams Qualified for FIRST Time in FIFA World Cup? Who Can Still Qualify

The 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States will feature 48 teams for the first time, giving more nations than ever a shot at football’s biggest stage. Alongside the usual heavyweights, a handful of teams have first time qualified for World Cup, turning qualification into a moment of national pride and a milestone in their footballing history.

The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar featured only one, the hosts themselves, who first time qualified for World Cup. Although Qatar’s campaign ended in the group stage, their participation marked a memorable first chapter in the country’s World Cup story.

Which are the teams qualified for FIRST Time in the FIFA World Cup?

Cape Verde National Football Team

Cape Verde’s "Blue Sharks" have made history and first time qualified for 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tiny Atlantic island nation, home to just over half a million people, will become the second-smallest country by population to compete at a men’s World Cup.

Their qualification came after topping a tough African group that included a statement win over Cameroon. Built on defensive discipline and sharp counterattacks under coach Pedro Brito, the team blended experience and belief to make the dream a reality.

Veterans like goalkeeper Vozinha, Ryan Mendes, and Jamiro Monteiro led from the front, and a commanding 3-0 win over Eswatini on the final matchday sealed their spot, setting off celebrations across the islands.

Uzbekistan National Football Team

Uzbekistan have finally ended years of near misses, first time qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after finishing runners-up in their AFC third-round group. They have often fallen just short in previous campaigns, but this time they broke the cycle to secure a historic debut on football’s biggest stage.

Jordan National Football Team

Jordan matched that feat by securing a runners-up spot in their AFC third-round group. Known as the "Chivalrous" team, their progress in Asian tournaments has finally culminated in a historic breakthrough: their first-ever World Cup qualification.

Who Can Still Qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup This Week?

Suriname National Football Team

Suriname's "Suriboys" are one victory away from being one of the teams who qualified for first time in World Cup 2026. Currently topping CONCACAF Final Round Group A with nine points, level with Panama but ahead on goal difference, Tuesday's final qualifier with Guatemala will seal their place at the 2026 World Cup.

It has been a remarkable campaign sparked by a rule change that enabled Dutch-born players of Surinamese heritage to represent the country. The move unlocked a deep pool of overseas talent, led by striker Richonell Margaret, who scored twice in the crucial 4-0 victory over El Salvador.

Curacao National Football Team

The tiny Caribbean island of Curacao is one step away from joining the list of teams who qualified for first time in World Cup 2026. Guided by Dutch coach Dick Advocaat, the team has had an impressive run in the qualifiers. With 11 points, they lead Group B, just one point ahead of Jamaica, after thrashing Bermuda 7-0 in their last outing. The group's fate is on the line this week in a critical match against Jamaica, as a win will send them to the top of the table and into the 2026 World Cup automatically.