The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the AFC Asian Qualifiers, with six teams vying for two direct berths at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Road to 26 Playoffs Group Stage kicks off on October 8, featuring two groups of three teams each, competing in a single round-robin format.
Oman, Qatar, and UAE will battle it out, with the group winner securing a World Cup spot. Oman seeks a historic maiden appearance, while Qatar aims for back-to-back participations as reigning AFC Asian Cup champions.
Indonesia, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia will clash for the second direct berth. Indonesia, the only Round 1 team to advance, looks to qualify for the first time since 1938 (as Dutch East Indies), while Iraq targets a second World Cup showing.
Fixtures:
Oman vs Qatar (Oct 8, 6pm, Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium)
Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia (Oct 8, 8:15pm, King Abdullah Sports City Stadium)
Qatar vs UAE (Oct 14, 8:15pm)
Saudi Arabia vs Iraq (Oct 14, 10:30pm)
Group winners secure direct World Cup berths. Runners-up will contest a two-legged knockout showdown (Nov 13-18) for a chance to represent AFC at the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.
