The semi-finals of the European play-offs for the 2026 World Cup were held on Thursday. Italy was the most prominent participant, seeking to return to the tournament after missing the last two editions.
Europe boasts the largest number of participants in the World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Twelve teams have already qualified directly, with four more qualifying through the play-offs.
Results of the 2026 World Cup European Play-off Semi-Finals
Romania continued their struggles, dating back to the 1998 World Cup in France, losing to Turkey 1-0. The Czech Republic needed penalties to overcome Ireland after a 2-2 draw in regulation and extra time.
Denmark crushed North Macedonia 4-0, while Italy narrowly defeated Northern Ireland in Bergamo, Atalanta’s home ground. Robert Lewandowski and his teammates secured a 2-1 victory over Albania.
The most dramatic match was in Slovakia, where the home side took the lead only to be stunned by Kosovo, coached by Franco Foda, with a remarkable comeback that will be remembered for years to come. The visitors won 4-2 and secured their place in the playoffs.
Despite a disastrous group stage campaign, Sweden’s chances of reaching the World Cup remain high after their 3-1 victory over Ukraine. Graham Potter’s men now have a real opportunity to qualify for the tournament, even without a single win in the first round.
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Finally, Wales drew 1-1 at home against Bosnia and Herzegovina, forcing a penalty shootout. Thanks to a stellar performance from St. Pauli goalkeeper Nicola Vasilje, the visitors snatched the victory and the playoff spot.
Results of the 2026 World Cup European Play-off Semi-Finals
Turkey 1-0 Romania
Czech Republic 2 (4)- (3) Ireland
Denmark 4-0 North Macedonia
Slovakia 2-4 Kosovo
Ukraine 1-3 Sweden
Wales 1 (2)-1 (4) Bosnia and Herzegovina
World Cup 2026 European Play-off Final Matches
This round will undoubtedly feature several highly anticipated matches, most notably the exciting encounter between Sweden and Poland, to be held at the Friends Arena in Stockholm.
For Italy, Gennaro Gattuso’s team seems to have a manageable task, facing Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home. The historical and current level of competition favors the Azzurri, unless they suffer a third consecutive defeat.
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Another exciting match will be between the Czech Republic and the star-studded Danish national team. The final match, also expected to be closely contested and unpredictable, will be between Kosovo and Turkey.
Schedule for the 2026 World Cup European Play-off Finals
The 2026 World Cup European Play-off Finals will be held simultaneously on Tuesday, March 15th, with all matches kicking off at 9:45 PM Mecca time.
Italy won the first World Cup playoff match vs Northern Ireland
We play Wales or Bosnia (away from home) on Tuesday. Winner goes to the WORLD CUP.
FORZA RAGAZZI FORZA ITALIA 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/JhZnlKmQWM
— Italian Football TV (@IFTVofficial) March 26, 2026
Schedule for World Cup 2026 European Play-off Finals:
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. Italy – Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (10:45 PM Mecca Time)
Sweden vs. Poland – Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (10:45 PM Mecca Time)
Turkey vs. Kosovo – Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (10:45 PM Mecca Time)
Czech Republic vs. Denmark – Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (10:45 PM Mecca Time)
