The Asian second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers started on November 16, 2023. That round ran across the AFC qualification pathway and was part of the broader qualifying process that began in October 2023.

Quick Scoop

  • Start date: November 16, 2023.
  • Context: It was the second stage of the Asian qualifying route for the 2026 World Cup.
  • Why it matters: Results from that round helped determine which teams advanced deeper into qualification and ultimately into the World Cup race.

Note

Some search results can mix up football qualifying with other tournaments or with later “second round” formats in other sports, so the date above refers specifically to AFC football qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.