Thursday night in Europe was full of drama as teams fought for a chance to reach the final playoff round. By the end, six sides moved on, while others saw their World Cup hopes end.
Sweden took control against Ukraine, winning 3-1, with Viktor Gyokeres scoring all three goals. Poland had to fight back to beat Albania 2-1, Piotr Zielinski’s late goal sealing the win.
Denmark was in another class, thrashing North Macedonia 4-0, while the Czech Republic survived a tense penalty shootout to beat the Republic of Ireland 4-3 after a 2-2 draw. Kosovo edged Slovakia 4-3, keeping alive dreams of their first World Cup.
Not everyone made it. Ukraine, Albania, North Macedonia, Republic of Ireland, Slovakia, and Wales all fell short.
All eyes now turn to Tuesday, March 31, 2026, when the playoff finals will decide Europe’s last World Cup spots.
Bosnia and Herzegovina play Italy, Sweden meets Poland, Kosovo faces Turkey, and the Czech Republic takes on Denmark. Win and a spot at the 2026 World Cup is yours; lose and the journey ends.
The final games promise tight contests and high stakes, with Europe’s last tickets to the World Cup still up for grabs.
