The final places for this year’s FIFA World Cup have been determined after a nearly three-year qualifying campaign, paving the way for the tournament’s inaugural 48-team edition. Scheduled from June 11 to July 19, the competition will span the United States, Mexico, and Canada, welcoming new contenders while sidelining established powers and prominent players.
Italy’s absence from a third consecutive World Cup is striking, having lost in the playoff final to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Nigeria’s non-participation in Africa also stands out despite a squad featuring players from top European leagues. Additionally, Chile and Poland, along with Costa Rica, a quarterfinalist in 2014, will miss this year’s event, emphasizing the slim margin for error in qualification.
Several star players will miss the tournament, including Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma and Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolo Barella. Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy and Georgia’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are also notable absentees. Notably, Poland’s Robert Lewandowski, a prolific scorer, will be absent, potentially marking the end of his major international tournament appearances.
Key players to watch in the upcoming World Cup include Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Lamine Yamal, expected to play pivotal roles. Messi remains a driving force for Argentina, while Mbappe’s pace and finishing are crucial for France. Yamal, a rising talent, is anticipated to make an impact, along with Portugal’s Vitinha and Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, among others.
Spain, France, Argentina, and England are among the top contenders for the title, with each team boasting strengths and depth in their squads. Defending champion Argentina, France with Mbappe leading the attack, and Spain’s technically gifted side are formidable challengers. England’s consistent performance in recent tournaments also positions them as a strong competitor, alongside Germany, a four-time world champion.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed Iran’s participation in the World Cup, addressing concerns over the team’s matches in the United States amid regional conflicts. Infantino reassured that Iran, a strong team, will play as scheduled. Despite uncertainties, Iran is set to face New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Los Angeles and Seattle, respectively, during the group stage matches.
