The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is almost complete, but six places are still up for grabs – and they will all be decided this week.
Across Europe and the inter-confederation play-offs, it is now simple. Win, and you’re going to the World Cup. Lose, and the dream is over.
The final qualified teams will be confirmed by Wednesday morning, with four European nations and the winners of the two inter-confederation play-offs finals sealing their spot in the Canada, Mexico and the USA this summer.
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Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Italy
Tuesday 31 March – 19:45
Italy are once again walking a dangerous line.
After missing the last two World Cups, the pressure on Gennaro Gattuso’s side is enormous, but their semi-final win over Northern Ireland has steadied nerves. With players like Gianluigi Donnarumma and Sandro Tonali, they have the quality and experience to get the job done.
Bosnia, however, will make this uncomfortable. Backed by a hostile home crowd and inspired by veteran striker Edin Dzeko, they have already shown resilience to reach this stage. Still, Italy’s pedigree should see them through if they handle the occasion.
Sweden vs Poland
Tuesday 31 March – 19:45
This is one of the most evenly balanced ties.
Sweden arrive full of confidence after a big semi-final win, and playing at home gives them a real edge. Their attacking threat looks sharper, and momentum is firmly on their side.
Poland, though, have experience and a proven match-winner in Robert Lewandowski. They rarely make things easy, and even when performances dip, they find ways to get results. This one could go all the way, with very little separating the sides.
Viktor Gyökeres takes Sweden one step closer to the World Cup! ?pic.twitter.com/hgNHI7WhYt
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Kosovo vs Türkiye
Tuesday 31 March – 19:45
Kosovo are the surprise package of these play-offs.
Their win over Slovakia showed their attacking intent and fearlessness, and they now return home to a passionate crowd that could play a huge role. They have energy, belief and nothing to lose.
Türkiye, however, have the stronger squad on paper. With the likes of Arda Guler and Hakan Calhanoglu, they possess the quality to control the game. If they impose themselves early, they should progress, but Kosovo are more than capable of causing another upset.
Czechia vs Denmark
Tuesday 31 March – 19:45
Denmark look like one of the most complete teams left in the play-offs.
Their dominant semi-final performance highlighted their quality going forward, and with players like Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Højlund, they have the tools to win this.
Czechia, though, have already shown their fighting spirit, coming from behind to reach this stage. They will not make it easy, especially at home, but Denmark’s overall quality should give them the edge.
DR Congo vs Jamaica
Tuesday 31 March – 22:00
DR Congo enter this tie as favourites to secure one of the final World Cup spots.
With a squad full of players competing at a high level in Europe, they have a clear advantage in quality and experience. This is a huge opportunity for them to return to the global stage.
Jamaica will need a much stronger performance than in their semi-final. They have attacking threat, but against a well-organised and physically strong DR Congo side, they will have to raise their level significantly.
Iraq vs Bolivia
Weds 1st April – 04:00
This is a tie shaped by preparation and momentum.
Iraq come into this game after a disrupted build-up, which could impact their rhythm. Despite their quality, they may struggle to hit top level immediately.
Bolivia, on the other hand, arrive with momentum after a comeback win in their semi-final. Match sharpness and confidence could prove decisive in what is expected to be a tight contest.
Everything on the Line
What makes these play-offs so compelling is the format.
There are no second chances, no second legs, and no room for error. Every match is effectively a final, with teams just one win away from the biggest stage in football.
By the end of the week, the final six spots will be filled, and the full lineup for the 2026 World Cup will be complete.
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With so much at stake, these matches are set up for drama, goals and big moments.
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