2026 World Cup: Play-off winner set to join Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan in Group K

The winner of Play-off 1 has been assigned to position two in Group K for the 2026 World Cup, completing a quartet that already features Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.

The final qualifying spot will be contested by DR Congo, New Caledonia or Jamaica, with one of the three set to secure a place on football’s biggest stage.

The draw places the eventual qualifier directly into the heart of a demanding group.

Portugal, led by a new generation that continues to build on years of global prominence, will enter the tournament as favourites to advance.

Colombia, known for their fluid attacking play and fierce competitive spirit, add further weight to a group that will challenge even the most prepared sides.

Uzbekistan, one of Asia’s consistent improvers, provide an unpredictable element with their disciplined structure and growing confidence on the international scene.

Whoever emerges from Play-off 1 will face a swift adjustment to elite competition.

DR Congo, one of Africa’s most physically imposing teams, offer strength, pace and direct attacking play that can trouble more established opponents.

Jamaica, with their blend of power and speed, are renowned for creating problems on the break and will aim to qualify for the tournament for the first time since 1998.

New Caledonia, the Oceania underdogs, would arrive as the least familiar to global audiences but with the ambition to defy expectations.

The expanded World Cup format provides all three contenders with a viable route to the group stage, but the challenge awaiting the winner is significant.

Group K already promises high-intensity football, contrasting tactical approaches and the possibility of surprise results.

For the team entering as the final qualifier, the opportunity is substantial: a chance to prove themselves against established footballing nations while chasing a historic progression.

As anticipation builds, attention will turn to the qualification play-off itself — a decisive moment that will determine which nation secures the final seat in one of the tournament’s most intriguing groups.

Regardless of which team advances, Group K now stands out as a cluster where ambition, unpredictability and contrasting football cultures converge.