The 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark a significant milestone in international football, with several countries preparing to take part in the tournament for the first time following its expansion to 48 teams.

The competition, which will be hosted jointly by United States, Canada and Mexico, will offer more nations the chance to compete on football’s biggest stage than ever before.

Among those already assured of their historic debut are Cape Verde national football team, Curaçao national football team, Jordan national football team and Uzbekistan national football team.

Cape Verde impressed during the African qualifying campaign.

Under coach Bubista, the team produced a consistent run of performances, winning seven matches, drawing two and losing just once.

Their qualification was sealed after a convincing 3-0 victory against Eswatini national football team.

Striker Dailon Livramento played a decisive role during the campaign, scoring four goals as Cape Verde secured their place at the tournament.

Elsewhere, Curaçao also achieved a landmark qualification during the CONCACAF qualifying campaign. Guided by former coach Dick Advocaat, the team remained unbeaten in ten matches.

Their qualification was confirmed after a goalless draw against Jamaica national football team.

The island nation, with a population of around 150,000, will become the smallest country ever to participate in a World Cup.

The team will now be led by coach Fred Rutten.

Asia will also welcome two newcomers to the global tournament.

Jordan secured their place by finishing second in their qualifying group behind South Korea national football team.

Similarly, Uzbekistan qualified after ending their group campaign in second position behind Iran national football team.

While four nations have already confirmed their participation, two additional teams could still make their first appearance through the upcoming intercontinental playoffs.

Suriname national football team must first face Bolivia national football team.

The winner of that tie will then meet Iraq national football team.

If Suriname win both matches, they will earn their first World Cup qualification.

Another nation hoping to make history is New Caledonia national football team.

The Pacific side will begin their playoff campaign against Jamaica before potentially facing the DR Congo national football team.

Victory in both matches would see New Caledonia secure a place at the World Cup for the first time.

With the expanded format creating new opportunities, the 2026 tournament promises to introduce several fresh faces to football’s biggest stage.