World Cup 2026: France and Croatia qualify

Fans looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup expect a tournament filled with familiar names and strong nations. The qualification of France and Croatia once again confirms their position in international football. This article shows how both teams secured their qualification, which players stand out and why the UEFA campaigns reveal much about their chances on the world stage. Readers gain a clear picture of the form, ambitions and performances of these nations on their road to the World Cup.

France on the road to the 2026 World Cup

France has once again qualified for the 2026 World Cup. The team dominated the UEFA qualification group and achieved convincing results. Qualification was secured early and confirmed the current strength of the squad. France is once again ready for a global finals tournament.

The team won four of five group matches and remained nearly unbeaten. The attack was effective and scored many goals in a short period. The defence held firm and conceded few chances. The team performed consistently and controlled throughout the campaign.

Kylian Mbappé played a major role during the campaign. His goals pushed France quickly toward the World Cup. The forward set new records and continues to grow as an influential player. His impact remains crucial for the national team.

Florian Thauvin returned to the squad and made an impression. His goal against Azerbaijan confirmed his form after a long absence. Hugo Ekitike also provided positive signs during his first start. His performance added more attacking depth to France.

Key factors in qualification

  • Strong attack with scoring power
  • Reliable defence during group stage
  • Individual quality of several players

France’s historical strength at global tournaments

France is playing its 17th World Cup. The team has been one of the most successful nations for many years. The results in 2018 and 2022 confirm the team’s status. The 2026 World Cup will again be approached with high expectations.

In Qatar 2022, France reached the final. The match against Argentina became a historic battle. The team narrowly missed the world title. Despite this, France showed a high level throughout the tournament. The triumph in Russia 2018 remains one of their greatest achievements.

France has also experienced disappointments. South Africa 2010 was a difficult period for the team. The early elimination caused criticism and unrest. Still, France always managed to recover strongly.

Croatia once again qualified for the 2026 World Cup

Croatia has once again qualified for the 2026 World Cup. The team finished top of the UEFA group and showed a strong campaign. The win over the Faroe Islands secured qualification early. The results highlight the stability of the team.

Croatia won several matches convincingly. The team stayed focused throughout the group stage. Opponents such as Montenegro and Czechia found little room. The team displayed defensive stability and offensive efficiency. Croatia again proved to be a reliable tournament contender.

Luka Modri? remains a decisive player for the squad. His impact in midfield is significant and clearly visible. The experienced playmaker guides the team with control and precision. Despite his age, he remains invaluable.

Croatia’s strengths

  • Experience at major tournaments
  • Leadership of Modri?
  • Efficient and stable qualification campaign

Croatia as a consistent World Cup performer

Croatia is competing in its seventh World Cup and fourth in a row. Since its debut in 1998, the country has often performed above expectations. The semi-final in France 1998 was a historic milestone. The team then won the third-place play-off. Davor Šuker became top scorer of the tournament.

The 2018 final in Russia was another highlight. The team lost to France in the final. The third place in Qatar 2022 confirmed their consistency. Croatia remains a strong presence at global tournaments and shows great resilience.

France and Croatia both qualified for the 2026 World Cup

France and Croatia have both qualified for the 2026 World Cup after strong UEFA campaigns. Both teams show form, stability and ambition heading into the tournament. Their experiences from previous editions make them strong contenders for success at the World Cup.

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Date published: 15-11-2025 11:53 | Date modified: 15-11-2025 | Author: Patrick de Graaf

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France and Croatia have qualified for the 2026 World Cup after strong UEFA qualifying campaigns. Both teams show form and ambition.


About the author

Patrick (author and webmaster)

Author of this content is Patrick. I have been playing soccer for more than 25 years and follow the daily news closely. My hobbies include playing football, running and maintaining various websites, in addition to my job as a financial professional.

I do not work for any related company or institution, so the information is reliable and independent. The information has been collected accurately from reliable sources and is regularly updated.