WORLD CUP 2026: ITALY OUT, NEW NATIONS RISE, HISTORIC RETURNS

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches with just 70 days to go, host Alex Alcazaz of Into The Net FC delivers a passionate and unfiltered analysis of the final qualification results. The episode centers on Italy's third consecutive failure to qualify, which Alcazaz condemns as an 'absolute disgrace' and a sign of the nation's decline from European powerhouse status. In contrast, the show celebrates historic returns: DR Congo and Haiti qualify for the first time since 1974, Iraq returns after 40 years, and several nations—including Austria, Norway, Scotland, Turkey, South Africa, and Qatar—make their first appearances since 1998 or earlier. Alcazaz highlights emotional moments, such as Sweden's redemption over Poland and Robert Lewandowski’s likely final international appearance. He also dives into the political tensions surrounding Iran’s participation and the ongoing controversy from the Africa Cup of Nations final, where Senegal refuses to return the title despite Morocco being declared champions due to a player walkout. The episode builds excitement around potential Cinderella stories and high-stakes matchups, including France vs. Senegal, England vs. Croatia, and DR Congo vs. Uzbekistan, while teasing future episodes with guest appearances.