Italy, Turkey, and Other European Teams Advance in 2026 World Cup Playoff Semi-Finals

The UEFA qualification playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have produced decisive results as several European teams secured their places in the upcoming final playoffs, keeping their World Cup dreams alive. Italy defeated Northern Ireland 2-0 in a hard-fought semi-final, with goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean. Italy, coached by Gennaro Gattuso, struggled initially but increased pressure in the second half to claim victory and will face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the final after the latter won a penalty shootout against Wales.

Turkey also secured a narrow 1-0 win against Romania at Istanbul's Tüpraş Stadyumu, thanks to Ferdi Kadioglu’s 53rd-minute goal assisted by Real Madrid’s Arda Güler. Despite early difficulties creating chances, Turkey under coach Vincenzo Montella managed to maintain their lead and will meet Kosovo in the final playoff match. Kosovo advanced with a thrilling 4-3 victory over Slovakia.

Other notable semi-final results include Denmark’s dominant 4-0 victory over North Macedonia, with goals by Mikkel Damsgaard, Gustav Isaksen, and Christian Nørgaard. Denmark will face the Czech Republic in the final after the Czech team beat Ireland via penalties. Sweden defeated Ukraine 3-1, while Poland secured a 2-1 win against Albania with contributions from Robert Lewandowski and Piotr Zielinski.

These results highlight the intense competition among European nations vying for a coveted spot at the 2026 World Cup, which will be held across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The next round final playoffs promise to be competitive, with Italy vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina, Turkey vs. Kosovo, Denmark vs. Czech Republic, and Poland facing other contenders for World Cup qualification.