World Cup 2026 Qualifiers

As the November World Cup qualifiers drew to a close last night, more nations were looking to book their tickets to the World Cup in the summer of 2026. Here's a rundown of all the standout action.

Scotland

Scotland sealed their place at the World Cup with a thrilling 4-2 win over Denmark at Hampden Park. Needing victory to top Group C, they got off to a dream start when Scott McTominay scored with an outrageous overhead kick. Denmark hit back through a Rasmus Højlund penalty, but their hopes took a blow when Rasmus Kristensen was sent off shortly after.

Lawrence Shankland restored Scotland's lead in the 78th minute, only for Patrick Dorgu to equalise four minutes later. With the game deep into stoppage time and tension at its peak, former Arsenal full-back Kieran Tierney fired Scotland ahead, sparking wild celebrations. Kenny McLean then added a stunning long-range strike to seal a famous win and automatic qualification for next summer's tournament, their first World Cup in 28 years.

Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Austria

Following Haris Tabaković's 12th-minute header, Bosnia and Herzegovina looked set to snatch qualification from Austria. Needing just an equaliser to top Group H, Austria dominated possession yet struggled to break down Bosnia's stubborn defence. The breakthrough finally came in the 77th minute, as Michael Gregoritsch's strike sealed Austria's place at their first World Cup since 1998.

Spain

Spain ended their qualifying campaign on a flat note, dropping points for the first time with a 2-2 draw against Turkey. Goals from Deniz Gül and Salih Özcan saw Turkey take a 2-1 lead after Dani Olmo's first-half strike, before Mikel Oyarzabal drew the scores level in the 62nd minute and secured qualification for La Roja. Spain looked far from convincing despite finishing top of Group E, and they will hope to rediscover their sharpness before the World Cup kicks off.

Belgium

Belgium swept Liechtenstein aside in Group J to earn the point they needed to secure World Cup qualification. Braces from both Jeremy Doku and Charles De Ketelaere, along with goals from Hans Vanaken, Brandon Mechele, and Alexis Saelemaekers, saw Belgium ease to a 7-0 victory, confirming their place at next summer's tournament.

Switzerland

Switzerland secured the point they needed to confirm top spot in Group B with a 1-1 draw against Kosovo. Qualification was already virtually assured, but this result made it official, booking their place at this summer's World Cup.

Play-offs Ahead

As the second spot teams resign themselves to the play-offs, all eyes will be on the European play-off draw on Thursday, 20 November.