Europe’s final qualification sprint for the 2026 World Cup is underway after the playoff draw defined the road ahead for Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Each nation faces a very different test on the path to the finals.
Wales will welcome Bosnia & Herzegovina for their semi-final, a matchup that suits their recent rise in form. Their dominant 7–1 victory this week has heightened expectations that they can produce another successful home performance.
Northern Ireland journey to Italy in one of the most challenging fixtures of the playoff round. Italy’s stumbles in recent matches provide small encouragement, but their home strength remains formidable.
The Republic of Ireland travel to Prague to take on Czech Republic. After Troy Parrott’s spectacular run of goals, Ireland believe they finally have an attacking spark capable of powering a playoff surge.
Additional playoff ties across Europe include Ukraine vs Sweden and a tense contest between Poland and Albania. Globally, inter-confederation fixtures will see Jamaica, DR Congo, Iraq and others compete for World Cup berths in Mexico.