We will know on Tuesday evening the first twelve qualified for the 2026 World Cup in the Europe zone. A field which will be completed next March by four teams, at the end of the play-offs which will bring together the twelve runners-up in groups and the four best group winners in the Nations League who are no longer in the running in these qualifiers.
What path will Spain and Belgium take? Before the last day of qualifying, these two selections have their destiny in hand and are, a priori, safe from disillusionment. In group E, La Roja has won its five matches but is not yet officially guaranteed to play in the North American World Cup next summer (from June 11 to July 19).
The Spaniards have 15 points and three lengths ahead of Turkey, their last opponent. They also have a largely favorable goal difference (+19 against +5). They must therefore lose by at least 7 goals against the Turks to finish second. Unlikely, especially given the scenario of the first act between the two teams (6-0).
Belgium safe?
In group J, the Red Devils are also leaders and are ahead of North Macedonia by two points. With, here too, a very comfortable goal difference (+15 against +9). It would therefore take an incredible combination of circumstances for Rudi Garcia’s players not to validate their ticket for the United States, Mexico and Canada.
In the event of a defeat against Liechtenstein, last in the group with no points taken and no goals scored, the winner of the Wales-North Macedonia match will give them priority. And a draw will also send them to the play-offs if in the other match, the Macedonians win by at least 6 goals. The Belgians therefore have some margin.
