The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying process is heating up, with some intense matchups and emotional journeys for several nations. Here’s a breakdown of the play-off draw, focusing on the UEFA section and the Intercontinental play-offs, along with some inspiring quotes from players and experts.
UEFA Section: A Battle of the Giants
The UEFA section of the play-offs is set to be a thrilling affair, with four more spots up for grabs at FIFA’s flagship event. Here’s how the draw looks:
Path A: Italy vs. Northern Ireland vs. Wales vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Semi-final 1: Italy, a four-time World Cup winner, faces a tough test against Northern Ireland, who are aiming for their first World Cup appearance since 1986. The winner will then battle Wales, who are seeking back-to-back World Cup tournaments, in the final.
- Semi-final 2: The Republic of Ireland, riding a wave of momentum, will face either Denmark or North Macedonia if they overcome Czechia in the semi-finals. If they win, they’ll host the final, just like Wales if they beat Italy or their British neighbours.
Key Players to Watch:
– Rob Earnshaw (Former Wales Striker): “I know Craig Bellamy; his mentality is ‘give us whoever, it doesn’t matter.’ We’ll take on anyone, and that’s thanks to him.”
Intercontinental Play-offs: Global Showdown
Beyond the UEFA section, the Intercontinental play-offs will determine the final two World Cup berths, featuring teams from various continents:
Semi-final 1: New Caledonia vs. Jamaica
- New Caledonia, ranked 149th in the world, takes on Jamaica, who are still in the hunt despite Steve McClaren stepping down as their boss. The winner will face DR Congo in the final.
Semi-final 2: Bolivia vs. Suriname
- Bolivia and Suriname will battle it out, with the winner advancing to face either New Caledonia or Jamaica in the final, and potentially Iraq, who await in the other half of the draw.
A Journey of Dreams and Emotions
The road to the 2026 World Cup is filled with dramatic moments and inspiring stories. Players like Troy Parrott of the Republic of Ireland have become heroes, scoring historic hat-tricks and leaving fans in tears of joy. As the play-offs unfold, the excitement and anticipation will only grow, with the world eagerly awaiting the final lineup for this global spectacle.