World Cup 2026: South Korea, Uzbekistan and Jordan qualify
The road to the World Cup 2026 is nearing its end. This article highlights the remarkable journeys of South Korea, Uzbekistan and Jordan. Each of these nations has secured qualification for the World Cup, which will take place in the USA, Canada and Mexico. Below is a summary of how these teams earned their place on football’s biggest stage.
South Korea reach their 11th consecutive World Cup
South Korea have once again qualified for the World Cup 2026. It marks their 11th straight appearance at the tournament. Since Mexico 1986, the Asian giants have not missed a single edition.
A 2-0 victory over Iraq in Basra secured qualification with one game to spare. Manager Hong Myungbo’s team managed the win without star player Son Heungmin. Substitutes Kim Jingyu and Oh Hyeongyu were decisive in the absence of the captain.
Despite their regular presence, South Korea have only once gone beyond the Round of 16. Their best result came at the 2002 edition, where they reached the semi-finals on home soil.
Consistent qualification, but limited success
While qualification seems routine, tournament success has been limited:
- 10 consecutive World Cup appearances without a quarter-final
- Only one top-four finish (2002)
- No AFC Asian Cup title since 1960
The appointment of Hong Myungbo brought stability after the departure of Jürgen Klinsmann. Wins over Oman, Jordan, Iraq and Kuwait proved South Korea’s dominance in the region.
Uzbekistan qualify for their first ever World Cup
Uzbekistan have qualified for the World Cup for the first time in history. The Central Asian nation has come close before but never made it through. This time, the long wait is finally over.
A goalless draw in Abu Dhabi against the UAE was enough to secure their spot. Uzbekistan now becomes the first Central Asian country to qualify for a World Cup.
Coach Timur Kapadze, a former international, led a talented new generation to this historic moment. Youth development and investment have laid the foundation for this success.
From heartbreak to breakthrough
Uzbekistan’s journey has been shaped by both sporting and human tragedy:
- A 1979 plane crash killed most of the Pakhtakor team
- Narrow misses in World Cup qualification for 2006 and 2014
- Significant investment in youth academies since 2010
Rising stars such as Abbosbek Fayzullaev and Abdukodir Khusanov represent the country’s footballing future. Khusanov’s rapid rise includes a transfer to Manchester City and growing global recognition.
Jordan qualify for their first World Cup
Jordan is one of the surprise teams of the World Cup 2026 qualifiers. After decades of failed attempts, they finally secured their debut on the global stage. A 3-0 win over Oman and South Korea’s victory against Iraq sealed the deal.
Known as Al Nashama, Jordan suffered only one defeat in Group B—against leaders South Korea.
Jamal Sellami’s side collected 16 points from 9 matches, showing consistency and determination. Ali Olwan’s hat-trick against Oman was a key moment in their campaign.
First appearance after four decades of trying
Jordan’s first qualifying attempt dates back to 1986. Ironically, Iraq ended their dreams then. Now, Iraq’s loss has helped confirm Jordan’s place in the World Cup 2026.
With strong results against regional rivals, Jordan has earned respect as a serious competitor. Their qualification reflects a shift in Arab football, with increased quality and ambition.
What this means for the World Cup 2026
With South Korea, Uzbekistan and Jordan qualifying, the World Cup 2026 gains a strong Asian presence. These nations’ performances demonstrate the ongoing development of football in Asia.
Key highlights include:
- South Korea qualifying for their 11th straight tournament
- Uzbekistan making history as debutants
- Jordan reaching their first World Cup after nearly 40 years of attempts
All three nations now focus on preparing for the tournament. Their aim is not just participation, but to compete with the best teams in the world.
South Korea, Uzbekistan and Jordan have qualified for the World Cup 2026. South Korea continue their impressive streak of appearances. Uzbekistan and Jordan both make their debut on the global stage. These stories highlight Asia’s growing presence and competitiveness in world football. The World Cup football in 2026 promises to be more global than ever.
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South Korea, Uzbekistan and Jordan have qualified for the World Cup 2026. Discover how these nations secured a place at the world’s biggest football stage.
About the author
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.