In Europe, the qualifying stage of the 2026 World Cup continued once again with sensational results. The unique dramatic situation of the round, of course, was manifested in the intensification of competition in each group and the fierce struggle for a place in the World Cup. In general, each match of this type changed the mood of the fans, and the scores made the intrigues even more interesting.
In particular, the Switzerland-Sweden match in Group В clearly demonstrated the current state of the teams. Although the newly appointed Swedes under Graham Potter's management had hoped for an important match, Switzerland decided the fate of the game early under heavy pressure at home. Embolo and Jaka's accurate shots instilled confidence in the team, while Manzambi's goal in the final minutes made the victory even bigger. This 4-1 victory practically paved the way for Switzerland to qualify for the World Cup.
Switzerland - Sweden 4:1
Goals: Embolo (12), Jaka (60, penalty), Ndoye (75), Manzambi (90+4) - Nyugren (33).
Another important clash in this group - the match between Slovenia and Kosovo - was even more intense than expected. The Kosovo team took the lead from the first minutes and scored twice. Aslani's opening goal, followed by Karnichnik's own goal, secured valuable three points for the visitors. This victory guaranteed Kosovo at least a place in the playoffs. To take first place, they need to defeat Switzerland by 7 goals in the final round - which is a very difficult task in practice.
Slovenia - Kosovo 0:2
Goals: Aslani (6), Karnichnik (64, own goal).
Red card: Stojanovic (53, Slovenia).
Group С also had its own drama. Isaksen's goal saved the team as Denmark were on the verge of defeat against Belarus. Despite an early shot from Damsgaard, Belarus turned the score in their favor with two goals. However, Denmark's actions in the final minutes allowed the situation to equalize. This result pushed the issue of qualifying for the World Cup to the final round.
Denmark - Belarus 2:2
Goals: Damsgaard (11), Isaksen (79) - Gromko (62), Demchenko (65).
The match between Greece and Scotland determined a different picture of the group. The match in Athens was very tense. Greece won 3-2, but the release of Bakasetas kept the atmosphere tense until the end of the match. Scotland went on a very active counter-attack but didn't manage to equalize. Now the main intrigue in the group will be resolved in the decisive match between Scotland and Denmark.
Greece - Scotland 3:2
Goals: Bakasetas (7), Karetsas (57), Solis (63) - Doak (65), Kristi (70).
Red card: Bakasetas (84, Greece).
In Group Н, an important attempt was made for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The convincing 3-1 victory over Romania not only inspired the fans but also deprived them of a World Cup spot. The active play of Džeko and Bayraktarević, and Tabaković's goal in the last minute, further demonstrated the team's strength. The group leader will now be determined in the final match between Austria and Bosnia. This match will be very important not only in terms of points, but also in terms of the opponent's psychological preparedness.
Bosnia and Herzegovina - Romania 3:1
Goals: Džeko (49), Bayraktarevich (80), Tabaković (90+4) - Birlija (17).
Red card: Dregush (68, Romania).
This round of qualifying once again demonstrated how complex, yet very demanding, the atmosphere of football in Europe is. Each contest has its own heroes, its own drama, and moments that delighted its fans. Now everyone is very close to the expected finish line - both young and experienced teams are ready to use their remaining chances for the World Cup to the very end.
Read “Zamin” on Telegram!
Users of Меҳмон are not allowed to comment this publication.
