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The 2026 World Cup will have a record 48 teams. Japan became the first nation excluding the three hosts to secure a spot. Other teams could follow in the current international window. Next year's tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada kicks off on June 11 and the final will take place on July 19.
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Japan's head coach Hajime Moriyasu acknowledges the applause from the crowd after their win against Bahrain in the World Cup qualifying soccer match at Saitama Stadium in Saitama, Japan, Thursday, March 20, 2025. - AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko
