Do-or-Die: Six Teams Chase Last World Cup Spots
TDT | Manama
Email : hussianm@newsofbahrain.com
The race for the final two spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up, with six teams set to compete in the newly introduced playoff format.
New Qualification Format
The playoff will feature the third- and fourth-placed teams from each of the three AFC qualification groups. These six nations will be split into two groups of three, with matches hosted by the highest-ranked third-placed team.
Each team will play two matches in a round-robin format, and the top team from each group will secure a place at the 2026 World Cup. This means there is no margin for error, as every point could be decisive in this last-chance qualification phase.
Bahrain’s Path to Qualification
Bahrain still has a realistic shot at reaching the playoffs, but it will require a strong finish in their remaining two qualifiers. To secure third or fourth place in their group, one of the following scenarios must unfold:
- Win both matches against Saudi Arabia and China, while Indonesia collects no more than three points in their remaining fixtures.
- Win both matches, while Saudi Arabia loses both of theirs or picks up a maximum of one point.
With their fate still in their own hands, Bahrain will approach these final games knowing that every goal and every point will be essential in keeping their World Cup dream alive.
Adding further intrigue, Bahrain could also be in contention to host one of the playoff groups if they finish as the best third-placed team across all groups.
A Dramatic Finish Ahead
With the new format introducing greater unpredictability, teams will be fighting not only for qualification but also for the advantage of hosting. The coming fixtures will decide who stays in the race for the biggest stage in world football—and who falls agonizingly short.
Bahrain will be hoping to keep their campaign alive, knowing that the journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is still not over.
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