Across the globe, high-stakes qualifiers are taking center stage. Though qualification systems vary in structure, each contest has one common goal: identifying the world’s best teams for the next World Cup. But these intense contests go beyond the football on the field. They are a powerful magnet for international tourism, drawing fans from around the globe to explore ancient cities and savor their regional cuisines, while providing a platform for locals to celebrate their rich culture and history.
The first round of European qualifying soft-launched in March and will kick into full gear this September, with a number of nations jockeying for top seeds and an inter-confederation playoff path. UEFA’s system, which pits top-ranked sides against lesser-known rivals in home-and-away matches, is notoriously demanding, but its intensity and unpredictable results produce some memorable moments.
The second round will be played in October and November, with groups of four featuring each nation’s top two teams. Those who finish first will advance to the finals in Qatar. The four lowest-ranked group runners-up and the two CONCACAF runners-up with the best Nations League record will play a pair of single-match playoffs (semi-finals, with the seeded teams hosting) to decide their path to the World Cup.