The World Cup 2026 intercontinental playoffs begin on Thursday, March 26, at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara and Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, with six teams vying for the last two spots. Bolivia faces Surinam, and Jamaica faces New Caledonia in the semifinals, with winners advancing against Iraq and DR Congo.
The World Cup 2026 intercontinental playoffs are held in Mexico as a single-elimination mini-tournament. Teams include Bolivia (Conmebol), Surinam (Concacaf), Jamaica (Concacaf), New Caledonia (Oceania), Iraq (AFC), and DR Congo (CAF). Semifinals feature the four lowest-ranked FIFA teams: Bolivia vs. Surinam on Thursday, March 26, at 4:00 p.m. at Estadio BBVA (Monterrey), and Jamaica vs. New Caledonia at 9:00 p.m. at Estadio Akron (Guadalajara). Winners face Iraq and DR Congo in finals on March 31: 9:00 p.m. in Monterrey and 3:00 p.m. in Guadalajara, per Mexico City time. Guadalajara's winner joins Group K with Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia; Monterrey's joins Group I with France, Norway, and Senegal. 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 aim for their World Cup debut; Bolivia seeks a return since 1994. Tickets are on sale via FIFA.com since March 3, priced at 200 MXN for first round and 300 MXN for second, in standard, accessible, and standing categories (standing only at BBVA). Bolivia requested extra security in Monterrey due to recent violence after 'El Mencho's' death. Matches air on ViX and FIFA+. Meanwhile, UEFA playoffs determine Mexico's Group A opponent.
