The qualifying process for the 2018 World Cup, which began on March 12, 2015, is reaching its climax.
In all, 31 places are up for grabs and so far, three nations have booked their place to join hosts Russia in next year's tournament.
Qualified nations: Russia (hosts), Brazil, Iran, Japan.
EUROPE (UEFA; 13 PLACES)
Qualifying for 2018 sees seven groups of six nations and two groups of five.
Russia qualify as hosts. Group winners qualify automatically, with the eight best runners-up facing a two-legged playoff. Gibraltar and Kosovo were late additions after being accepted as full FIFA members.