FIFA World Cup enters new era as big teams miss out

April 1, 2026

New Delhi: The FIFA World Cup will be held across the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19, marking the first-ever 48-team edition. The expanded format has opened doors for new teams but also seen several traditional football powers fail to qualify.

Big teams and stars miss out
Teams like Italy national football team, Nigeria national football team, Chile national football team, and Poland national football team failed to qualify despite strong squads.

This also means star players like Gianluigi Donnarumma, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Robert Lewandowski will miss the tournament.

Top contenders and players to watch
Teams like Argentina national football team, France national football team, Spain national football team and England national football team are seen as strong title contenders.

Star players including Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal are expected to dominate the tournament.