England's national team is on the brink of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup after securing five wins in five matches in Group K without conceding a goal. Serbia's loss to Albania means England only needs a win against Latvia on October 14 to secure their spot in the finals in North America. A draw won't be enough for the "Three Lions" to qualify at this stage.

Meanwhile, Scotland has guaranteed a playoff spot after defeating Belarus and benefiting from Denmark's victory over Greece. Scotland, currently second in Group C on goal difference, can qualify directly if they win their final two matches against Greece and Denmark in November.

In Group J, North Macedonia leads by one point over Belgium and two over Wales, who have a game in hand. Wales faces a crucial match against Belgium, with their final game against North Macedonia in November.

Northern Ireland remains in the race for qualification after a 2-0 win over Slovakia and will face Germany in a key match, with all three teams level on points after three games.

Ireland needs a win against Armenia to keep playoff hopes alive after losing to Portugal, currently sitting at the bottom of Group F.

The 2026 World Cup will be the first to be hosted by three countries—USA, Canada, and Mexico—and will feature 48 teams, marking the tournament's return to North America for the first time since 1994.