Several of world football’s biggest stars will be absent from the 2026 World Cup after their nations fell short in qualifying, despite expanded slots and a broader global field.
With 42 teams confirmed for the finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the remaining berths will be filled through UEFA and intercontinental play-offs. However, for a number of high-profile players, the dream has already ended.
Georgia’s Euro 2024 hero Khvicha Kvaratskhelia headlines the list of European absentees after his nation endured a brutal qualifying campaign. Despite the Paris Saint-Germain winger scoring twice, Georgia finished a distant third behind Spain and Turkey in Group E, losing four of their last five matches.
Their 4-1 collapse in Turkey summed up a confidence-stricken squad lacking the quality to support their star man.
Africa also produced major shocks, with Gabon, Cameroon, and Nigeria all failing to reach North America. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s World Cup hopes ended for good after Gabon’s dramatic extra-time play-off defeat to Nigeria, despite the veteran striker scoring seven goals in the qualifiers.
Cameroon’s campaign ended in disarray as Bryan Mbeumo and his teammates lost to DR Congo in heartbreaking fashion, while turmoil behind the scenes continues to plague the Indomitable Lions.
Nigeria suffered a penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the final play-off, with Victor Osimhen withdrawn at half-time due to injury.
The Galatasaray striker scored eight goals in qualifying and remains one of world football’s most feared forwards, but his brilliance was not enough to mask Nigeria’s inconsistency or reliance on individual moments. The defeat means Nigeria will miss a second consecutive World Cup.
South America and Europe contributed further big-name casualties. Chile finished bottom of the CONMEBOL table, ending Alexis Sánchez’s hopes of a final World Cup appearance.
Serbia also collapsed in UEFA Group K, with Dusan Vlahovic unable to inspire his side as they fell behind England and Albania. Hungary’s hopes were dashed by a late Troy Parrott winner for Ireland, leaving captain Dominik Szoboszlai in tears after his five goal contributions were not enough.
Elsewhere, Slovenia and Costa Rica also stumbled at key moments. Manchester United forward Benjamin Šeško endured a difficult campaign as Slovenia’s attack misfired and injuries mounted, while veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas could not rescue a Costa Rica side that scored only once in six qualifiers.
Guinea’s prolific Serhou Guirassy was similarly unable to replicate his club form, finding the net just once as his country’s bid for a first-ever World Cup appearance faded.
