The European qualification games will start in September 2008 after EURO 2008.

There will be nine qualifying groups in total, eight groups of 6 teams with the last group containing 5.

The nine group winners qualify directly for the World Cup while eight best second teams of the nine will compete in a two legged playoff for the final four spots.

The draw and match dates for the qualifiers will be made on November 25, 2007 in Durban.