The precise playoff routes for Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland to the 2026 World Cup have been finalized, providing a clear map of the challenges and opportunities ahead. The dramatic draw confirmed the pairings, setting the stage for a series of do-or-die encounters in March. Although the three nations face distinctly different levels of opposition, the universal belief is that an inspired run of form could deliver one or more of them to the global spectacle.
For Wales, the journey begins on home turf, a massive advantage for Craig Bellamy’s men. They will host Bosnia & Herzegovina in Cardiff for their semi-final. The Welsh squad is flying high, still savoring the memory of a comprehensive 7–1 thrashing of North Macedonia. With two consecutive home victories all that is required, momentum is firmly on their side as they aim for a spot in the World Cup.
Northern Ireland face a monumental task, having been drawn against Italy in an away semi-final. Despite the former world champions’ recent inconsistencies, they are formidable opponents, particularly when playing at home. Northern Ireland will need a performance of a lifetime to advance. Should they achieve a monumental upset, the tantalizing prospect of a winner-takes-all final against their neighbors Wales would become a reality.
The Republic of Ireland’s focus is on Prague, where they will meet the Czech Republic in their semi-final. Despite the tough away tie, manager Stephen Kenny will be buoyed by the prolific scoring form of Troy Parrott, who netted five times across his last two international appearances. A win in Prague could secure a potential home final against either Denmark or North Macedonia, a pivotal opportunity to qualify for their first World Cup since the 2002 tournament.
These playoffs are critical for European football, as they will determine the final four teams heading to the World Cup. The semi-finals are locked in for March 26, with the high-stakes final matches to follow on March 31. The continent’s other major battles confirmed in the draw include the contest between Ukraine and Sweden, and the challenging fixture between Poland and Albania. Meanwhile, outside of Europe, the inter-confederation draw set up promising routes for Jamaica and Bolivia in games that will be played in Mexico.