FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers: How to Watch Live in India

The FIFA World Cup is the biggest and most prestigious football tournament in the world, and the journey to the 2026 edition is already underway with the qualification matches happening across different continents. Millions of football fans in India are eager to follow their favorite national teams as they compete for a spot in the tournament. However, with so many qualification matches taking place across various regions, it can be challenging to find the best ways to watch them live. In this guide, we will explain how Indian fans can watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers live, covering television broadcasts, live streaming options, qualification formats, key fixtures, and more.


Television Broadcast in India

For Indian viewers, television remains one of the most reliable ways to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. The official broadcasting rights for FIFA World Cup qualifiers vary by region, but in India, Sports18 is one of the primary channels that holds the rights to air international football matches. Matches involving major teams such as Brazil, Argentina, Germany, and England are frequently broadcast on Sports18 HD and Sports18 1. Additionally, in some cases, matches are also shown on Sony Sports Network, which has been a major broadcaster for international football in India. Depending on the region of qualification, different broadcasters may cover matches from UEFA, CONMEBOL, AFC, and other confederations. Fans should check the schedule in advance to see which matches are available on their preferred sports channels.

The following television networks will broadcast the qualifiers in India:

  • Sony Sports Network – The primary broadcaster for FIFA events in India, offering coverage on multiple channels.

  • Sony Ten 1 (HD/SD) – English commentary and analysis.

  • Sony Ten 2 (HD/SD) – Additional English coverage.

  • Sony Ten 3 (HD/SD) – Hindi commentary for a wider audience.

  • Sony Ten 4 (HD/SD) – Regional coverage in Tamil and Telugu for selected matches.

  • DD Sports – Potentially broadcasting key matches for free on terrestrial television.

These channels provide in-depth pre-match, half-time, and post-match analysis, making it an engaging experience for football lovers across the country.


Live Streaming Options

For those who prefer to watch the qualifiers online, live streaming platforms provide a convenient way to enjoy the action from anywhere. The JioCinema app and website offer live coverage of several FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier matches for Indian viewers, especially UEFA and CONMEBOL matches. Sony LIV is another major streaming platform that broadcasts select qualifiers, particularly those from Europe and Asia. Additionally, FIFA+, FIFA's own digital platform, may provide free streaming for certain matches, giving fans a chance to watch some games without a paid subscription. Other alternatives include FanCode and regional broadcasters' streaming services that might cover specific qualification zones. Watching matches via streaming platforms allows fans to enjoy high-definition coverage on their smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs, making it an excellent option for those who prefer flexibility in their viewing experience.

Here is the list of Live Streaming Options for watching FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers in India:

  • Sony LIV – Official digital partner with subscription-based access.
  • JioTV – Allows Jio users to watch selected matches on mobile.
  • Airtel Xstream – Provides access to Sony Sports channels for Airtel subscribers.
  • FanCode – May provide coverage for select international matches.

Let me know if you need any further details!


FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualification Format

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be historic as it will be the first edition to feature 48 teams instead of the previous 32-team format. This expansion means that more teams from each continent will qualify, making the qualification process more intense and competitive. The qualification process is divided into different regional confederations:

  • UEFA (Europe): 16 direct qualification spots, with teams competing in a league format followed by playoffs.
  • CONMEBOL (South America): 6 direct spots plus 1 intercontinental playoff spot, with all teams playing in a round-robin format.
  • AFC (Asia): 8 direct spots plus 1 intercontinental playoff spot, featuring multiple qualification rounds.
  • CAF (Africa): 9 direct spots plus 1 intercontinental playoff spot, with teams playing in group-stage and knockout rounds.
  • CONCACAF (North America): 6 direct spots (including host nations USA, Canada, and Mexico) plus 1 intercontinental playoff spot.
  • OFC (Oceania): 1 direct spot plus 1 intercontinental playoff spot, with teams competing in regional qualifiers.

This new format ensures that more nations will have the opportunity to compete on the world stage, bringing more excitement to the qualification process. Fans can expect intense battles as teams fight for these coveted World Cup spots.


Key Fixtures to Watch

With so many qualification matches taking place across different continents, some fixtures stand out due to the presence of strong teams and high-stakes competition. Here are some of the top matches that fans in India should watch out for:

  • Argentina vs. Brazil (CONMEBOL): A legendary South American rivalry featuring superstars like Lionel Messi and Vinicius Jr.
  • England vs. France (UEFA): A battle between two of Europe’s strongest teams, both filled with world-class talent.
  • Japan vs. South Korea (AFC): A classic Asian rivalry that could decide qualification standings.
  • Nigeria vs. Egypt (CAF): Two of Africa’s footballing giants competing for a World Cup spot.
  • USA vs. Mexico (CONCACAF): A fiery North American clash with high stakes for both teams.

These matches are not only exciting but also crucial in determining which teams will secure a place in the 2026 World Cup. Fans should mark their calendars and tune in to witness these thrilling encounters.


Players to Watch

The FIFA World Cup qualifiers showcase some of the best footballing talent in the world, as top players compete to lead their nations to the grand tournament. Some of the most exciting players to watch in the 2026 qualifiers include:

  • Kylian Mbappe (France): A prolific forward known for his speed and goal-scoring ability.
  • Lionel Messi (Argentina): The legendary playmaker aiming to defend Argentina’s World Cup title.
  • Erling Haaland (Norway): A goal machine leading Norway’s push for qualification.
  • Vinicius Jr. (Brazil): One of Brazil’s most dynamic attacking players.
  • Jude Bellingham (England): A rising star in midfield, crucial for England’s campaign.
  • Mohamed Salah (Egypt): Africa’s top player, looking to take Egypt back to the World Cup.

These players will be instrumental in their teams’ qualification campaigns, and fans can expect spectacular performances from them throughout the qualifiers.


Conclusion

The FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers are already delivering thrilling football action, and Indian fans have multiple ways to watch their favorite teams in action. Whether through traditional television broadcasts on Sports18 and Sony Sports Network, or via live streaming on JioCinema, Sony LIV, and FIFA+, football lovers in India can enjoy every moment of the qualification process. With an expanded World Cup format, more teams have a chance to compete, making these qualifiers more intense than ever. Key fixtures, top players, and high-stakes matches ensure an unforgettable journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Stay tuned, mark your calendars, and don’t miss out on the action as the world’s best teams fight for a place in football’s biggest tournament!