The FIFA intercontinental playoffs for the 2026 World Cup began on Thursday, March 26, in Guadalajara's Estadio Akron and Monterrey's Estadio BBVA, with New Caledonia vs. Jamaica at 9:00 p.m. and Bolivia vs. Surinam at 4:00 p.m. Mexico City time. These semifinals determine opponents for the March 31 finals against Iraq and DR Congo for the last two spots in the 48-team tournament hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The single-elimination mini-tournament features six teams from different confederations: Jamaica and Surinam (Concacaf), Bolivia (Conmebol), New Caledonia (Oceania), Iraq (AFC), and DR Congo (CAF). The four lowest-ranked by FIFA rankings play single-leg semifinals, with winners advancing to finals on March 31 (3:00 p.m. Guadalajara vs. DR Congo for Group K: Colombia, Portugal, Uzbekistan; 9:00 p.m. Monterrey vs. Iraq for Group I: France, Senegal, Norway). Matches broadcast on TUDN, ViX, and FIFA+.
New Caledonia coach Johann Sidaner said: “It is a great opportunity for everyone... We value the luck of being here, but we are not just here to put on a good show. The idea is to take this adventure far,” adding on psychology: “Jamaica has everything on the line... and we have nothing to lose.”
Surinam coach Henk ten Cate remarked: “I don't think Bolivia can surprise us.” Bolivia midfielder Ramiro Vaca responded: “This will be a Bolivia that won't get desperate, that will show its best attributes to achieve this goal.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated: “We have a calendar. Soon we will have the 48 participating teams confirmed and we want the World Cup to take place as planned.” New Caledonia and Surinam seek World Cup debuts; Bolivia aims to return since 1994.
Tickets available since March 3 via FIFA.com (200 MXN first round, 300 MXN second; standard, accessible, standing). Bolivia requested extra security in Monterrey amid violence following 'El Mencho's' death. Meanwhile, UEFA playoffs will decide Mexico's Group A opponent. The World Cup runs June 11 at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca to July 19 at MetLife Stadium. Information from EFE, AP, and FIFA.
