The final European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup culminate on Tuesday with four decisive play-off matches that will determine the continent’s last four representatives. The spotlight falls on both established football giants and emerging nations dreaming of global recognition.
In Zenica, four-time World Cup champions Italy face Bosnia and Herzegovina in a high-stakes encounter. The Azzurri, led by manager Gennaro Gattuso (a 2006 World Cup winner), seek to end their 12-year absence from football’s premier tournament after missing both the 2018 and 2022 editions. Despite being considered favorites, Italy anticipates a challenging atmosphere in Bosnia, where veteran captain Edin Dzeko—who scored a crucial equalizer against Wales—brings extensive Serie A experience to counter Italian tactics.
Simultaneously, Kosovo stands on the brink of history as they host Turkey in Pristina. The lowest-ranked team in the play-offs, Kosovo could achieve their first major tournament appearance just a decade after joining UEFA and FIFA. Coach Franco Foda has called for composure despite the national euphoria following their dramatic 4-3 semi-final victory over Slovakia. They face a Turkish squad that hasn’t qualified since their remarkable third-place finish in 2002.
In Stockholm, Sweden meets Poland with both nations vying for Group F placement alongside the Netherlands, Japan, and Tunisia. Sweden’s Viktor Gyokeres, stepping up for the injured Alexander Isak, aims to secure only their second World Cup appearance in two decades. Opposing them is Poland’s Robert Lewandowski, who recently netted his 89th international goal during their comeback victory against Albania.
The final match features Czech Republic against Denmark in Prague. The Czechs staged an impressive recovery from two goals down to defeat Ireland on penalties, while Denmark responded strongly to their November qualification disappointment with a commanding four-goal second-half performance against North Macedonia. The victor will complete Group A with Mexico, South Africa, and South Korea.