The World Cup line-up is complete - here's what you need to know
The World Cup line-up is complete for the expanded 48-team line-up for this summer's tournament. DR Congo and Iraq were the last two teams to book their places in the 23rd edition of the World Cup to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July. The final four European teams were confirmed on Tuesday, with the big news being that four-time winners Italy were knocked out by Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The qualification process began in September 2023 and spanned six confederations before culminating in the Uefa and intercontinental play-offs on 31 March. DR Congo and Iraq booked their place with wins over Jamaica and Bolivia respectively. Of the 48 teams participating, the three hosts qualified automatically while 43 places were earned via direct qualification from the confederations and two spots were determined by intercontinental play-offs. The tournament will take place in 16 cities - 11 in the US, three in Mexico and two in Canada - between 11 June and 19 July.
The tournament will last a record 39 days and a new format features 12 groups of four. Mexico will face South Africa in Mexico City's Estadio Azteca to open the tournament on Thursday, 11 June. The top two teams from the 12 groups and the eight best third-placed nations will advance into an expanded knockout phase that will begin with a round of 32. The new world champion will be crowned at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium on 19 July. Attention now shifts towards the biggest **World
Quick Summary
The final teams have been decided for the expanded 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. With the full line-up now confirmed, all eyes turn to what is set to be the biggest World Cup yet - but how will it work?
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