World Cup will have a record 48 teams, and Japan became the first nation excluding the three hosts to secure a spot. Other teams could follow in the current international window. Next year's tournament in the United States,

Japan is coming to North America, and maybe Houston. The Blue Samari defeated Bahrain at Saitama Stadium in Saitama, Japan, on Thursday to book the team's spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It is the first country outside of the three host nations — the U.

Patrick Kluivert was brought in as Indonesia coach in January to take the country to World Cup for the first time since 1938, but their hopes of direct qualification were left on shaky ground after a 5-1 thumping by Australia on Thursday.

Tuchel is currently leading his first England camp and will manage his first game against Albania at Wembley on Friday night.

Thomas Tuchel was a surprise choice as England coach and will have to win next year's World Cup to justify the FA's decision to appoint him, according to Harry Redknapp. German Tuchel became England's third overseas head coach when he was named as Gareth Southgate's successor last year and makes his debut against Albania at Wembley on Friday.

Latest scores, table in South America World Cup qualifyingDorival Junior's side have won just five of their 12 CONMEBOL qualifiers so far, as they have a five-point cushion over seventh-place. Only the top six teams from South American qualifying reach the 2026 World Cup automatically.