With the 2026 FIFA World Cup less than a year away, attention is already turning to the teams from Asia who will be competing on football’s biggest stage.
The expanded 48-team format in the United States, Mexico and Canada has given the continent more representation than ever before, and several Asian countries have solid foundations and storylines worth watching when the finals kick off in June. For fans looking to follow the action and get involved, MelBet registration provides a simple way to stay updated and engage with the tournament.
Here, we look at the Asian nations to watch out for at the 2026 World Cup.
Asian Nations to Watch Out for at the 2026 World Cup
Japan
Japan will enter the 2026 World Cup as one of Asia’s most established and consistent sides. They were the first Asian nation to secure qualification, continuing a run of appearances that stretches back to 1998.
The Samurai Blue combines tactical discipline with creative attacking talent, and players like Takefusa Kubo and Kaoru Mitoma have been central to their recent success. Japan’s blend of youth and experience makes them a team that can not only compete in the group stage but also challenge for a spot in the knockout rounds.
South Korea
South Korea are another Asian team with deep World Cup experience, having qualified consistently over the past decades. Their 2026 campaign will be their 11th consecutive appearance, underscoring their stability and quality on the international scene.
South Korea will rely heavily on the leadership of seasoned stars like Son Heung-min, whose Premier League pedigree gives them an edge in big matches. Their defensive organisation, combined with offensive pace, makes them one of Asia’s strongest contenders in the finals.
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Iran
Iran are definitely one of the Asian nations to watch out for at the 2026 World Cup. Known for their disciplined approach and stout defence, they will also be in the mix in 2026.
They secured qualification alongside Japan and South Korea and have become a regular presence on football’s world stage. While they have not yet gone deep in a World Cup, their ability to grind out results and upset higher-ranked teams means they should not be underestimated in the group phase.
Australia
Australia, though geographically in Oceania, compete as part of the Asian Football Confederation and bring a different style to the tournament. The Socceroos have a rugged, physical brand of football that has served them well in major tournaments.
With a mix of domestic league talent and players from Europe’s top divisions, Australia are capable of making noise at the finals.
Other Asian Nations to Watch Out for at the 2026 World Cup
Saudi Arabia and Qatar are other Asian nations to watch out for at the 2026 World Cup. They both have also punched their tickets to the World Cup.
Saudi Arabia’s national team has been increasingly competitive in recent major tournaments, highlighted by a shock win over Argentina in the 2022 World Cup. Qatar, meanwhile, are aiming to build on their experience as hosts of the 2022 tournament and the 2023 AFC Asian Cup winners.
Both teams display technical skill and growing tactical maturity, making them dark horses capable of challenging even higher-profile squads.
Two of the most intriguing stories from Asia heading into 2026 are Uzbekistan and Jordan. Both nations have secured World Cup qualification for the first time, marking historic milestones in their football history.
Uzbekistan’s rapid improvement and Jordan’s breakthrough reflect the rising competitiveness of Asian football beyond the traditional powers. While they may be considered underdogs, both sides have the potential to surprise on football’s biggest stage and steal headlines with spirited performances.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Sebastian Frej
Recording Date: 19.11.2025
