As the anticipation builds for the 2026 World Cup, European teams are in a fierce competition for their positions. With 42 out of the 48 tournament slots already secured, the battle intensifies among the remaining countries vying for four coveted spots.
European Playoffs for the 2026 World Cup
In March 2026, UEFA will hold playoffs to determine the final four teams from Europe that will join the World Cup in North America. This playoff will feature 16 teams, including:
- 12 runners-up from the European qualifiers
- 4 Nations League group winners who did not qualify directly
These teams will be divided into four distinct paths, with each path containing semifinals and a final, all played in a single-leg format.
Playoff Schedule
The semifinal matches are scheduled for March 26, 2026, while the finals will take place on March 31, 2026. Here is the lineup for the semifinals across the four paths:
| Path | Semifinal Matchups |
|---|---|
| Path A | Italy vs. Northern Ireland Wales vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| Path B | Ukraine vs. Sweden Poland vs. Albania |
| Path C | Turkey vs. Romania Slovakia vs. Kosovo |
| Path D | Denmark vs. North Macedonia Czechia vs. Republic of Ireland |
Advancing Teams
The winners of the semifinal matches will compete in the final match of their respective paths to secure their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This playoff format ensures thrilling matchups as teams strive for their chance on the world stage.
Fans across Europe will be eagerly watching as these nations battle it out for the remaining European spots in the prestigious tournament.
For continuous updates on the playoffs and more soccer-related news, stay tuned to El-Balad.
