The road to the 2026 World Cup in North America has become much clearer for the home nations, after the tense play-off draw was conducted on Thursday, 20th November 2025.
The Play-Off Draw Results
In a draw that sets up several epic encounters, the semi-final fixtures have been confirmed. Northern Ireland face the monumental challenge of a tie against four-time world champions Italy. Meanwhile, Wales have been paired with Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Republic of Ireland will take on the Czech Republic.
The semi-finals are scheduled for 26 March, with the decisive final matches to be played just five days later.
Paths to the World Cup Final
The draw has created a fascinating potential final for the fans. Should both Wales and Northern Ireland triumph in their respective semi-finals, they will face each other for a place at the World Cup, with Wales designated as the home team for that crucial match.
For the Republic of Ireland, who secured their play-off spot with a dramatic, last-gasp victory over Hungary, a win against the Czechs would see them play the winner of the tie between Denmark and North Macedonia.
A Tale of Three Nations
Each home nation carries a different history and recent form into these high-stakes matches. Northern Ireland, who qualified via the Nations League, have the toughest task on paper. Their record against Italy is daunting, with just one victory in eleven meetings, dating back to 1958. Italy, despite their pedigree, last qualified for a World Cup in 2014.
Wales will be riding a wave of confidence after ending their qualifying campaign with a thumping 7-1 victory over North Macedonia. They are aiming for a second consecutive World Cup finals appearance.
The Republic of Ireland last graced the world's biggest football stage in 2002. Their dramatic entry into the play-offs has fuelled hopes that they can end a long wait for qualification.
Among the other European semi-finals drawn were Turkey vs Romania, Slovakia vs Kosovo, Sweden vs Ukraine, and Poland vs Albania. In total, 16 teams are competing for the four remaining European spots at the 2026 World Cup.
