Wales Chase World Cup Dream as Ireland and NI Brace for Crucial Playoff Tests

The road to the 2026 World Cup narrowed sharply after the playoff draw revealed the routes for Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. With knockout football looming in March, all three teams know the stakes could not be higher.
Wales will be delighted with a home semi-final against Bosnia & Herzegovina. Buoyed by their extraordinary 7–1 win over North Macedonia, they head into the playoffs full of belief and momentum. Two victories in Cardiff would secure an immediate return to football’s biggest stage.
Northern Ireland, meanwhile, face a massive challenge away to Italy. Despite Italy’s patchy form, their pedigree and depth make them tough opponents, particularly at home. A win would mark one of Northern Ireland’s greatest away results of modern times.
The Republic of Ireland must travel to Prague for their semi-final against Czech Republic. After Troy Parrott’s sensational five-goal week, confidence in the Irish camp is higher than it has been in years. Should they progress, a home final awaits against Denmark or North Macedonia.
Elsewhere in the draw, Ukraine will face Sweden in one of the standout ties, while Poland and Albania prepare for a fierce battle in the other semi-final. The inter-confederation draw also delivered compelling matchups, with Jamaica, DR Congo, Bolivia and Iraq all navigating their own paths toward qualification.