Official: Barcelona & Real Madrid stars qualify for 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Members of the first-team ranks at Spanish football’s two leading clubs secured for themselves passage to next year’s World Cup in the early hours of Wednesday.

This came owing to Brazil’s qualifying victory over Paraguay.

The Seleção returned to action earlier today, welcoming Paraguay to the Arena Corinthians for a crunch CONMEBOL clash.

And when all was said and done, Carlo Ancelotti’s troops emerged on the right side of a hard-fought 1-0 result.

Vinícius Jr. proved himself match-winner, notching the game’s only goal just shy of half-time.

And in the process, the Real Madrid star ensured that he and (potentially two) fellow members of Xabi Alonso’s squad, alongside at least one player from Barcelona, will take their place at the 2026 World Cup.

From the former, Rodrygo looks a certain inclusion, with Éder Militão also likely to be in contention, in the case of enjoying a successful recovery from his long-term knee injury.

From Hansi Flick’s Barcelona ranks, meanwhile, Raphinha, who also featured from the off against Paraguay, will be expected to play a starring role for Brazil on international football’s grandest stage.

Conor Laird – GSFN