The Asian Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are currently in Round 3, which is one of the key stages of the qualification process for teams across Asia. The format of Round 3 involves:
- 12 teams split into two groups of six.
- The teams in each group play home and away round-robin matches.
- The top two teams from each group will automatically qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- The third and fourth-placed teams advance to Round 4 for another chance to compete for a place.
The teams that make it to Round 3 include the strongest performers from previous qualification rounds, including powerhouses like Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Australia, alongside emerging teams from earlier stages.
The matches are scheduled across various international breaks, leading to intense competition as teams vie for a spot in the expanded 48-team World Cup in 2026【6†source】【8†source】【9†source】.