Europe’s Playoff Battle Is Officially Set

The draw held in Zurich has settled the final picture: the UEFA playoff matchups for the last four European tickets to the 2026 World Cup are now confirmed. Sixteen teams remain alive — but only four will reach the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The rules are simple: survive two knockout matches, or watch the World Cup from home.

The field includes giants like Italy, Denmark, Poland and Ukraine, rising sides such as Albania, Romania and Slovakia, and ambitious challengers like Northern Ireland, North Macedonia and Kosovo. Fate has been drawn. Now, the margins are razor-thin.

All UEFA Playoff Matchups

Path A: A Giant Under Pressure

The first bracket features a headline semifinal: Italy vs Northern Ireland, a clash loaded with historical tension for the Azzurri. On the other side, Wales face Bosnia and Herzegovina, two nations accustomed to do-or-die playoffs.

The winners will meet in the final for one World Cup spot.

Path B: Heavyweights and Dark Horses

In Path B, Ukraine will meet Sweden in a high-drama semifinal, while Poland clash with Albania, one of the breakout teams of the cycle.

Only the winner of the final will book a ticket to 2026.

Path C: A Wide-Open Race

Path C brings balanced duels: Turkey vs Romania and Slovakia vs Kosovo. Two semifinals without a clear favorite and a final that promises intensity from start to finish.

The path winner moves on to the World Cup.

Path D: Four Teams, One Last Breath

The final path features Denmark vs North Macedonia and Czechia vs Republic of Ireland, a bracket defined by physical battles and tactical chess matches.

Only the final’s winner will claim the last available European place.

How the UEFA Playoff Works

The format remains unchanged: four playoff paths, each with two single-leg semifinals and a final. No second chances. No return legs. Just two matches separating each nation from the World Cup — or elimination.

The playoff window runs from March 23 to March 31, with host stadiums assigned according to the draw results.

Europe now braces for impact: sixteen contenders, four survivors, and a path filled with drama.