France's coach Didier Deschamps emphasized the unpredictability of the draw, highlighting the need for adaptability given the varying qualities of potential opponents.
The structure of the qualifiers allows for a competitive edge, with teams needing to perform well in the Nations League to secure favorable positions in the World Cup qualifiers.
As the Nations League quarter-finals approach, the outcomes will significantly shape the final group compositions for the World Cup qualifiers, potentially altering the competitive landscape.
Teams like France and Spain, with strong recent performances, are expected to navigate their groups successfully, but surprises are always possible in tournament play.
The draw for the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup took place on December 13, 2024, in Zurich, Switzerland. France, the runner-up of the 2022 World Cup, is set to compete in Group 4 against Ukraine, Iceland, and Azerbaijan, contingent upon their performance in the Nations League quarter-finals against Croatia. If France fails to advance, they will join Group L with the Czech Republic, Montenegro, the Faroe Islands, and Gibraltar.
Current European champions Spain will be in Group E with Turkey, Georgia, and Bulgaria, provided they defeat the Netherlands in their quarter-final match. The losing team from that match will be placed in Group G alongside Poland, Finland, Lithuania, and Malta.
The matches for the qualifiers are scheduled to occur between March and November 2025, with group winners earning direct qualification for the World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The runners-up will have a chance to qualify through play-offs, contributing to Europe's total of 16 teams in the tournament.
