Two nights of football, dozens of goals, and one huge headline — England are the first European nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Elsewhere, France dropped points in Iceland, Spain put on another clinic, Germany fought hard in Belfast, and Ronaldo kept scoring because, well, he always does.
Let’s dive into what went down across Europe this week. 👇
🇬🇧 England already on the plane ✈️
Wembley was all smiles on Tuesday night. England booked their ticket to North America after a 5–0 demolition of Latvia, sealing qualification with two games to spare.
Harry Kane led the charge with a brace, while Bellingham and Foden ran the show. This was vintage Southgate football: structured, confident, clinical.
“We’ve built a winning culture — this group expects to dominate,” said Southgate post-match.
England’s numbers tell the story — 24 goals scored, only 2 conceded. Their mix of maturity and attacking depth makes them early contenders for 2026 glory.
🇫🇷 France stumble in Iceland ❄️
For the first time in this campaign, Les Bleus looked mortal. A 2–2 draw in Reykjavík stopped their perfect run. Goals from Nkunku and Mateta had them ahead twice, but Iceland refused to fold and punished sloppy defending late on.
Deschamps’ team still leads Group D, but the drop in intensity was noticeable — especially without Antoine Griezmann pulling the strings.
“We can’t afford to relax — every point matters,” said Deschamps after the game.
🇩🇪 Germany grind out a win ⚫⚪🔴
It wasn’t pretty, but it was progress. Germany earned a 1–0 win away to Northern Ireland, thanks to Nick Woltemade’s first-ever international goal — a smart header from a corner in the 31st minute.
The game was tense. Northern Ireland hit the post late on and forced Neuer into two key saves, but Germany held firm.
“We’re not there yet, but the progress is real,” said coach Julian Nagelsmann.
After months of rebuilding, the Mannschaft are finally finding rhythm — tighter defensively, more cohesive in midfield, and showing flashes of the old German efficiency.
They now sit tied at the top of their group with Slovakia, edging forward toward automatic qualification.
🇪🇸 Spain flawless again 🔴
Spain look unstoppable. A 4–0 rout of Bulgaria showcased the best of Luis de la Fuente’s side — possession, precision, and purpose.
Mikel Merino scored twice, and Spain’s midfield trio of Rodri, Pedri, and Olmo completely dictated the tempo. It’s no longer just about style — it’s about finishing games with authority.
“We play beautiful football, but we also play to win,” said De la Fuente.
🇵🇹 Portugal held by Hungary 🇭🇺
Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice — because of course he did. But Portugal let a 2–0 lead slip in a 2–2 draw with Hungary that delayed their qualification party.
The Selecção dominated for 70 minutes but were undone by two late lapses. Hungary, led by Dominik Szoboszlai, showed grit and tactical maturity.
“We’re close, but we have to finish strong,” Ronaldo said afterward — now sitting on 132 international goals.
🇮🇹 Italy back on track 💙
Italy delivered a confident 3–0 win over Israel, led by goals from Barella, Retegui, and Pellegrini.
Spalletti’s team looked balanced — pragmatic yet purposeful. The Azzurri haven’t dazzled, but they’re improving game by game, leaning on experience and structure.
“We’re not flashy — we’re focused,” Spalletti said.
⚡ Around Europe
- 🇧🇪 Belgium beat Wales 4–2, with De Bruyne converting two penalties.
- 🇸🇪 Sweden lost 0–1 to Kosovo, leading to Tomasson’s dismissal.
- 🇸🇰 Slovakia beat Luxembourg 2–0 to stay competitive.
- 🇮🇪 Ireland beat Armenia 1–0 thanks to Evan Ferguson’s goal.
🔢 Current Standings Snapshot
| Group | Leader | Surprise Team | Key Story |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Spain | Scotland | Spain nearly through |
| B | France | Iceland | Les Bleus stumble |
| C | Italy | Ukraine | Tight race for 2nd |
| D | England | Serbia | England qualified |
| E | Portugal | Hungary | Drama in Lisbon |
| F | Germany | Slovakia | Nagelsmann rebuilds confidence |
🔮 What’s next
Two matchdays left before Europe’s qualifying picture clears. Group winners qualify directly, while the runners-up and Nations League wildcards will face off in March 2026 playoffs.
With England already through, Spain on the brink, and Germany finally stabilizing, the race for the remaining spots is heating up fast.
🧠 Soccer Legends Takeaway
England are cruising. Spain are dominant. Germany are quietly rebuilding. France just got a wake-up call. Portugal can’t relax. Italy are climbing back.
And behind them, nations like Hungary, Iceland, and Kosovo remind us that no night in Europe is easy anymore.
The road to 2026 isn’t just about who qualifies — it’s about who evolves. Europe’s football map is more unpredictable than ever.
❓FAQ – European Qualifiers 2026
How many European teams qualify for 2026?
Sixteen total — twelve direct, four through playoffs.
Who’s already qualified?
England are the first. Spain and Portugal could follow next round.
When are the playoffs?
March 2026.
Where’s the World Cup being played?
Across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.