The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup is set to kick off on June 11, with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa in Mexico City. However, six qualifying spots from the European and Intercontinental play-offs are still to be determined.
The final teams will be confirmed on Tuesday, as the winners of the four European play-offs and two intercontinental matches earn their spots in this summer’s tournament hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
In Europe, Kosovo will host Turkiye, who aim for their first World Cup appearance. Meanwhile, four-time champions Italy must secure a victory against Bosnia and Herzegovina to avoid missing the finals for the third consecutive tournament. Iraq, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Bolivia, and Turkiye are all eager to break long absences from the World Cup stage, but only six teams can advance through the qualifying finals.
European Play-offs
Path A: Italy vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina clashed with Italy in Zenica. Edin Dzeko’s late goal against Wales kept Bosnia’s dreams alive, propelling them into the semi-finals where they triumphed 4-2 on penalties. The 40-year-old Dzeko, aiming to become one of the oldest outfield players to compete in the World Cup, will lead the charge for Bosnia against an Italy team stacked with talent, including Gianluigi Donnarumma and Sandro Tonali.
Italy rebounded from a shaky start to secure a 2-0 win over Northern Ireland in Bergamo, lifting team spirits after disappointing play-off exits in 2018 and 2022. Playing at home in Zenica grants Bosnia a crucial boost, but Italy comes in as favorites with a formidable squad lineup. A slip-up here would be unacceptable for the Azzurri.
Winner: Italy
Path B: Sweden vs. Poland
In Stockholm, Sweden faced Poland, with Viktor Gökeres shining after netting a hat-trick against Ukraine. Sweden, under coach Graham Potter, plummeted during the qualifying stages but now have a chance to redeem themselves on home soil. Poland, bolstered by goals from Robert Lewandowski and Piotr Zielinski in a recent comeback against Albania, head into the match with confidence.
Although Poland displays favorable recent form, Sweden’s home advantage could tip the scales in their favor. Expect a close encounter, possibly decided on penalties.
Winner: Sweden
Path C: Kosovo vs. Turkiye
In Pristina, Kosovo took on Turkiye. Turkiye edged Romania with a narrow 1-0 win in the semi-final, while Kosovo pulled off a surprising 4-3 victory against Slovakia. Kosovo, ranked the lowest among the remaining European nations, will rely on a spirited performance to overcome a Turkiye squad rich in talent.
Despite Turkiye’s recent victories in their meetings, the electric atmosphere at Stadi Fadil Vokri could energize Kosovo and create an upset.
Winner: Kosovo
Path D: Czech Republic vs. Denmark
The Czech Republic battled back from a 2-0 deficit to force a penalty shootout victory over Ireland. They face Denmark, who demonstrated their strength with a convincing 4-0 win over North Macedonia. While Denmark boasts stars like Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Højland, their ability to handle the pressure of being favorites is under scrutiny after a rocky qualification campaign.
Given their recent form, Denmark will need to prove themselves in this decisive match against a resurgent Czech squad.
Winner: Denmark
Intercontinental Play-offs
Route 1: Democratic Republic of the Congo vs. Jamaica
In Zapopan, Mexico, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is set to face Jamaica. Jamaica will need to significantly improve to compete with the Congolese side, who have top-tier European experiences among their ranks. Despite a recent win over New Caledonia, Jamaica faces an uphill battle as they confront one of Africa’s strongest teams.
With their squad depth and experience, the DRC is favored to advance.
Winner: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Route 2: Iraq vs. Bolivia
In Guadalupe, Mexico, Iraq faces Bolivia. The Iraqi team has endured turmoil due to ongoing regional conflicts, complicating their preparations. Despite logistical challenges, they have been granted private travel to Mexico for the match. Bolivia, bolstered by a recent comeback victory against Suriname, enters the contest with momentum, while Iraq’s extended competitive hiatus is a significant concern.
This match represents a pivotal opportunity for both nations to realize World Cup dreams.
Winner: Bolivia
