Countries secure places at 2018 World Cup

CAIRO – 7 September 2017: The 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia is taking shape as seven countries qualify for the event alongside the host nation. Another 24 places for the competition remain contested as teams around the world compete for a shot at the title.

Brazil is ready to regain their reputation after a humiliating 7-1 loss against Germany in the 2014 World Cup semifinal in Brazil. The South Americans were the first to qualify to the World Cup in March.

Iran, South Korea, Japan and Saudi Arabia will represent Asia at Russia, while Syria will play against Australia at the playoffs.

In Europe, so far only Belgium has succeeded in securing its place in the next World Cup after topping Group H with 22 points from eight games.

In North America, Central America and the Caribbean (CONCACAF), Mexico qualified after beating Panama on Friday to be the first CONCACAF team to qualify to the World Cup.

In Oceania, New Zealand topped the continent and must face off against South America’s fifth-place team in order to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.