Over the next two years or so, there will be hundreds of 2026 World Cup qualifiers across the planet, but few will be as meaningful as the clash this week between Yemen and Sri Lanka.
On Thursday, Asia’s 20 weakest teams, according to FIFA’s rankings, meet in 10 two-legged ties with the return matches taking place next week. The winners progress to the second round, a group stage, which will mean six more games against tougher opposition and the potential for more.
