The road to the 2026 World Cup in North America reaches a critical juncture today as the European play-off draw takes place. For the passionate football fans of Wales, the Republic of Ireland, and Northern Ireland, this event in Zurich will define their nations' hopes of reaching the tournament.
The Stakes and the Teams
After a week of intense qualification drama, the final line-up for the play-offs is now confirmed. While England and Scotland have already secured their spots, the dreams of three home nations remain alive. A dramatic stoppage-time winner from Troy Parrott for the Republic of Ireland against Hungary was the final piece of the puzzle, ensuring Heimir Hallgrimsson's side claimed their place in today's draw.
The draw features 16 teams in total. This group is composed of the 12 runners-up from the qualification groups, joined by four additional teams that earned their place through their performances in the Nations League. The full list of teams awaiting their fate is: Italy, Denmark, Turkey, Ukraine, Poland, Wales, Czechia, Slovakia, Republic of Ireland, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, Romania, Sweden, North Macedonia and Northern Ireland.
How the Play-Offs Will Work
The path to Canada, Mexico, and the USA is a two-stage process. The draw will determine the fixtures for eight semi-final matches, all scheduled to be played in March. The winners of those eight crucial ties will then progress to four subsequent finals. It is the victors of these four final matches who will ultimately earn the coveted place at the World Cup 2026.
When and Where to Follow
Football fans across the UK will be glued to their screens as the draw unfolds. The ceremony is set to begin at midday (12:00 p.m.) UK time on Thursday, November 20. With so much at stake for the home nations, every fixture drawn will be analysed with intense interest as the road to North America becomes clearer.
