The draw results for the most exciting stage of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Europe - the transition matches - have been announced, and now it has become completely clear which teams are contenders to qualify for the World Cup through the playoffs. The games, which will decide the fate of about twenty national teams, will be held in March 2026.
12 teams that finished second in the groups and four more teams that won the UEFA Nations League advanced to this stage. A total of 16 teams were divided into four grids, each with semi-final and final matches. The draw with the participation of Marco Materazzi and Martin Dalin also added special significance to the event.
The semi-finals will be held on March 26, and the finals on March 31.
What kind of competition is expected on which grid?
First grid - a test for the Italians, an opportunity for Wales
Italy - Northern Ireland
Italy was known for its extremely unstable play in this qualifier: two heavy defeats to Norway, heavy losses in Milan, and the team's demoralization are still at the center of discussion. Northern Ireland had a second chance through the Nations League, becoming an unexpected opponent against the Italians despite a less bright qualification.
Wales vs. Bosnia
Wales is coming to the playoffs in high spirits after a very big win (7-1) in the last round. Bosnia proved to be a serious opponent in the qualifying matches, playing well against group leader Austria.
The winner of this set will host the game at home in the final.
The second set is favored by Ukraine, a serious test awaits Poland
Ukraine vs. Sweden
Ukraine performed well in the qualifiers, defeating their main rivals Iceland twice. Sweden, on the contrary, played a very unsuccessful qualifier and lost many points. They came to this playoff due to the results of the Nations League.
Poland - Albania
Poland faced the Netherlands well, but lacked luck in important matches. Albania, against the backdrop of England's strong performance, reliably advanced to the playoffs, surpassing their opponents in their group competition.
The third set - Slovakia vs. Kosovo will be exciting
Slovakia vs. Kosovo
Slovakia finished the group with a heavy defeat against Germany, but still retained second place. Kosovo, however, showed consistent play in their group and achieved worthy results against the favorites.
Turkey - Romania
Turkey played at a high pace in qualifying and "stopped" Spain with an away draw in the final round. Romania got an opportunity through the Nations League and is coming with serious preparation for the playoffs.
Fourth set - a fierce match between Denmark and North Macedonia
Denmark - North Macedonia
Denmark lost the group lead due to unexpected defects in the last rounds. Now they are striving to firmly restore their prestige in the transition debates. North Macedonia, having shown a confident performance against the outsiders of their group, advanced to the playoffs thanks to their results in the Nations League.
Czech Republic - Ireland
The Czech Republic secured second place in the easy group, but there were also a number of impressive losses. Ireland, meanwhile, went through the most dramatic qualifying path: they made it to the qualifying matches with a last-minute goal, creating a genuine atmosphere of gratitude in the country.
Intercontinental playoffs - a battle for two more spots
Representatives from four more continents are contenders for qualification: teams from Africa, Asia, South America, and Oceania will compete for the final spots.
Path 1:
- New Caledonia - Jamaica
In the final, they will fight the winner, DR Congo.
Path 2:
- Bolivia - Suriname
And in the final, Iraq awaits them.
All matches will take place on March 23 and 31 in Guadalajara and Monterrey.
The European draw marked the beginning of even more intense annual exchanges on the way to the World Cup. In the playoffs, every mistake can block the path to the World Cup - therefore, March is destined to be one of the most exciting times for the football world.
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