The AFC third-round qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have begun, featuring 18 teams competing for eight automatic spots and one intercontinental playoff spot. Notable favorites include Qatar, Iran, South Korea, and Japan, but there are opportunities for lesser-known teams like Iraq, Jordan, and Kuwait to make a mark. The expanded World Cup format, increasing from 32 to 48 teams, has doubled Asia's automatic spots from four to eight, providing more chances for underdog nations. Concurrently, Oceania's qualifying matches are also underway, with New Zealand favored to secure a spot, while the runner-up will enter inter-confederation playoffs. The increased representation aims to bring more diversity and global participation to the tournament.