Asia at the FIFA World Cup: 1930-1998

Ahead of the draw, the-AFC.com takes a trip down memory lane to find out how the 12 Asian representatives to have previously been to the World Cup have performed – beginning the first of two parts by looking at the editions from its inception in 1930 to the one hosted by France in 1998.

A record number of eight tickets are on offer for Asia at the global showpiece to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, and the contenders will be split into three groups of six teams for the next phase of the Asian Qualifiers, with a ninth side also standing a chance to qualify through the Inter-Confederation playoffs.

With the date for the draw fast approaching, the-AFC.com takes a look back at how the sides from Group D, E and F of the second round made it through to the next stage.

A total of 18 sides will be split across three groups, with six teams set to advance directly to the global showpiece in Canada, Mexico and the United States, and a further six to progress to the next stage of the AFC Asian Qualifiers.

Asia has a record eight automatic places up for grabs at the FIFA World Cup, with one more team to get the chance of being the continent’s ninth participant via the Inter-Confederation playoffs.

Ahead of the draw, there is all to play for in what promises to be a thrilling next phase of qualifying. Here’s how the six sides from Groups A to C of the previous round got to this stage.

No nation knows semi-final heartbreak at the AFC Asian Cup quite like IR Iran; on seven occasions since 1976 - the most recent of the country’s three consecutive continental titles - Team Melli have fallen one hurdle before the tournament’s deciding match.

Seven previous attempts at FIFA World Cup qualification have seen Uzbekistan falter in the the final round but the Central Asian side look well placed to book a berth in the 2026 Finals, to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

The UAE, seeking a second appearance at the global showpiece, came agonisingly close to qualifying for the Qatar 2022 edition with Australia ending their campaign in the Asian playoff.

Despite finishing second in Group G on goal difference, Saudi Arabia demonstrated their strength with 13 points and a solid performance throughout the second round.

A historic second round campaign means Palestine’s FIFA World Cup dream remains alive as the qualifiers head into the third round with the West Asian side hoping to take their place in the 2026 global showpiece which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Boosted by their top place finish in the second round, Oman head coach Jaroslav Silhavy will not shy away from making changes to his squad ahead of their third round campaign, with eight spots available for the FIFA World Cup 2026 to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.