The 2026 World Cup will have a record 48 teams, and Japan became the first nation excluding the three hosts to secure a spot. Other teams could follow in the current international window. Next year's tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada kicks off on June 11 and the final will take place on July 19.

Japan become the first nation to book their place in the 2026 World Cup through qualifying after defeating Bahrain 2-0 in Saitama.

With a little over a year left for the 23rd FIFA World Cup, which is set to be bigger than ever with the tournament expanding to 48 teams from 32, we take a look at the teams that have already made it to the Finals as well as a detailed look at the qualification process.