England Draws Familiar Foes: World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Unveiled

England will face Serbia, Albania, Latvia, and Andorra in Group K for the 2026 World Cup European qualifiers. The draw's complexities leave eight groups undecided until after the Nations League quarter-finals. Nations League outcomes will impact several groups as they prepare for the expanded 48-team World Cup.

ZURICH, Switzerland, Dec 13 (Reuters) - England is set to compete against several familiar teams, including Serbia, in the European qualifying rounds for the 2026 World Cup. These matches are scheduled to unfold following the draw conducted in Zurich.

The draw, however, left many teams uncertain about their group rivals due to the interwoven outcomes of the Nations League quarter-finals slated for next March. Notably, England stands among a select group of top-seeded teams with a confirmed itinerary, facing Serbia, Albania, Latvia, and Andorra under the new leadership of Thomas Tuchel beginning January 1.

Across other matches, the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, introduces a 48-team format for the first time. Europe receives 16 slots, up from the previous 13, with automatic qualifications for group winners and playoff opportunities for runners-up alongside top-ranked Nations League performers.

(With inputs from agencies.)