FIFA World Cup 2026: Stars facing qualification challenges

nytimes.com [$]

Several high-profile football stars are at risk of missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to their nations failing to qualify or facing difficult play-off matches. Players like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Jan Oblak, Dominik Szoboszlai, Victor Osimhen, and Bryan Mbeumo have already seen their teams eliminated during qualification. Others, including Italy's Gianluigi Donnarumma and Sweden's Dejan Kulusevski, must navigate March play-offs for a chance to participate. Lingering doubts also surround veterans like Neymar and N'Golo Kante due to form and fitness, while injuries threaten the participation of England's James Maddison and Levi Colwill.


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FIFA World Cup 2026: Stars facing qualification challenges | News Minimalist