By Martin Graham
The European World Cup play-offs begin on Thursday, with four remaining spots available for this summer’s tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Sixteen nations are involved, including 12 runners-up from qualifying groups and four Nations League group winners who did not secure automatic qualification.
The structure is divided into four separate paths, each featuring four teams. Every path consists of single-leg semi-finals followed by a final, with the winner claiming a place at the World Cup.
British hopes and potential clashes
Wales welcome Bosnia-Herzegovina to Cardiff, aiming to secure back-to-back World Cup appearances. However, they have yet to beat their opponents in four previous meetings, and manager Craig Bellamy has described the visitors as a “different beast,” highlighting the challenge ahead.
Northern Ireland travels to face Italy in Bergamo, playing at Atalanta’s stadium rather than traditional venues like San Siro or the Stadio Olimpico. Manager Michael O’Neill believes the setting could be more suitable for his side. Northern Ireland has not defeated Italy since 1958, adding further difficulty to their task.
If Northern Ireland manage to progress, they could meet Wales in the playoff final. Such a scenario would present a significant opportunity, as Northern Ireland aims to reach their first World Cup since 1986, when the tournament was held in Mexico.
Sweden’s uncertainty under Potter
Sweden entered the play-offs despite finishing bottom of their qualifying group, having secured their place through success in the Nations League. Their squad features notable attacking talent, including Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, and Anthony Elanga.
Under Graham Potter, results have been underwhelming so far. The team has yet to win, suffering a 4-1 defeat to Switzerland and drawing 1-1 with Slovenia. Their semi-final will take place in Valencia against Ukraine, with the neutral venue required due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Potter, who previously found success with Ostersunds FK between 2011 and 2018, is currently without Isak due to a broken leg. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has indicated the striker could return in late March or early April, potentially boosting Sweden if they advance.
Italy’s pressure and Poland’s ambitions
Italy’s place at the World Cup remains uncertain, with their last appearance dating back 12 years. Despite winning six of eight qualifying matches, two defeats to Norway left them second in their group. Manager Gennaro Gattuso has voiced frustration at the play-off format, noting that runners-up previously qualified automatically.
Gattuso, a member of Italy’s 2006 World Cup-winning squad, faces significant pressure, with his tenure potentially at risk if Italy fail to overcome Northern Ireland. The stakes are high, as another absence from the tournament would deepen concerns around the national team.
Meanwhile, Robert Lewandowski is targeting a third World Cup with Poland. The 37-year-old, his country’s record scorer with 88 goals in 163 appearances, has contributed three goals and four assists in his last seven matches. Poland are unbeaten in six games heading into their semi-final against Albania, who have lost just twice in their previous ten outings.
The winner of Poland versus Albania will face either Sweden or Ukraine away in the final, setting up a challenging route to qualification.