With the 2026 World Cup edging ever so closer every day, the full list of competitors is almost confirmed. The European play-offs are yet to be concluded, not only that but also the inter-confederation play-offs (ICPO) need to be resolved.

The ICPO are a unique path to qualifying for the World Cup with six teams from five continents competing for the two available places that will gain access to the golden ticket of World Cup qualification. As Europe have their own play-offs to decide their final competitors they are not involved in this mini knockout phase. Instead, nations from Asia, Africa, Oceania, South America and CONCACAF compete for their last shot of glory.

THE FORMAT

Now, the format is a little different to a standard knockout phase as there are only six teams. The way this works is that the four lowest ranked nations play a one-legged game with the winners progressing to a final to face one of the two higher ranked nations in accordance to FIFA’s national team rankings. To balance the odds a little bit, all the games will be held at neutral grounds. These being the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara and the Estadio BBVA in Monterrey.

FIRST ROUND

So, who is competing? The first fixture listed is between New Caledonia of Oceania, and they will be facing the CONCACAF representatives, that just missed out on automatic qualification to Curaçao Jamaica. As much as we love a fairy tale, it is difficult to look past Jamaica in this game. Although, they have just parted ways with head coach Steve McClaren, so perhaps the ship is travelling through some choppy waters, can New Caledonia capitalise on this and produce the shock of the play-off?

The second fixture is one, on paper, that should be slightly more difficult to call. The high-altitude menaces of Bolivia (South America) take on continental acquaintances (albeit, different football confederations) Suriname (CONCACAF). Just a couple of years ago this would be a no brainer with Bolivia comfortably seeing off the Suriboys. However, recently, Suriname have uplifted their national team selection policy in which they were only allowed to use domestic based players. Now they can choose from Suriname nationals, many of which have ties to the Netherlands because Suriname was a Dutch colony for centuries before its independence.

For those who like to back an upset, this is the more likely game. Still a difficult game to call though. Even though the Surinamese have exceeded in this qualification cycle, Bolivia themselves have done the same. Needing a win and results to go their way on the final round of qualifying, Bolivia welcomed the mighty Brazil to the top of their mountain and turned the Samba Boys over 1-0. Perhaps it’s harsh to say there could be an upset on the cards with results like that, however, Bolivia struggle immensely when not playing on a mountain, their away record is abysmal so playing in Mexico hugely benefits Suriname.

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THE FINALS

The winner of game one between New Caledonia and Jamaica will then face, arguably the strongest team at the ply-offs, DR Congo. Ranked 56th, as of November 24th 2025, the DR Congo should be looking at their potential opponents with relative comfort. Whether Jamaica or New Caledonia it is difficult to see a situation where the African giants lose. Premier League names such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Arthur Masuaku will likely dominate down the sides, with Yoanne Wissa (if fit) likely the biggest goal threat and rumours that 36-year-old Yannick Bolasie coming back into the fold make the DR Congo almost formidable for their small island nation competitors.

On the other side of the bracket, the winners of Bolivia and Suriname will face Asian side Iraq. Often overlooked as a footballing nation. Possibly, because of the success of neighbouring Asian nations such as IR Iran, the Iraqi national team has quietly been going about its business in this qualification cycle. Overcoming the United Arab Emirates over two legs is no small feat. Ranked just to places below the DR Congo they will pose a threat to both South American based nations. Iraq will be the favourites to progress but with either Bolivia or Suriname this is no given reward. If you’re looking for an upset, this second side of the play-off bracket is more likely to pay out.

As likely as it is that DR Congo and Iraq do qualify you have to feel some empathy for the Oceanic nation of New Caledonia. All the OFC nations challenge each cycle but always come short to New Zealand (now Australia have joined the AFC). The disparity between the nations is vast and often it’s New Zealand and then the rest fighting it out for second. With the extended World Cup this has at least guaranteed one space for Oceania (probably New Zealand for many years) but also this one ICPO spot. Who knows perhaps New Caledonia can pull off the impossible?

Written and Researched by BSc Cavan Campbell

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