The 48-team FIFA World Cup 26™ will offer greater opportunities for nations all around the globe to secure a place on football’s biggest stage.

And while the bigger names from AFC qualifying – such as Japan, Korea Republic, Australia, IR Iran and Saudi Arabia – are likely to be at the forefront once again, some of Asia’s untested teams have the chance to make their mark with up to nine places available.

Here, FIFA picks out five potential dark horses who have the opportunity to secure their debut place at the World Cup via one of the eight automatic qualifying spots, or via the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.