Wales is set to host Bosnia and Herzegovina in a crucial one-legged World Cup play-off semi-final, with the prospect of facing either Italy or Northern Ireland on home turf in the final, should they advance.
Craig Bellamy’s squad secured their spot by finishing second behind Belgium in qualifying Group J, earning the right to be the home team not only for this pivotal match but also for the final, if they succeed.
Northern Ireland, who clinched their place through the Nations League, face a daunting challenge as they prepare to travel to Italy for their semi-final.
Mark your calendars: the semi-finals are scheduled for Thursday, March 26, with the finals set for Tuesday, March 31. Kick-off times are slated for either 5 PM or 7:45 PM.
The winners of these four play-off finals will earn a coveted spot in the World Cup and complete the lineup of 16 European teams in the tournament.
World Cup Play-off Draw:
Play-off Path A:
Semi-final: Italy vs Northern Ireland
Semi-final: Wales vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Final: Wales/Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Italy/Northern Ireland
Play-off Path B:
Semi-final: Ukraine vs Sweden
Semi-final: Poland vs Albania
Final: Ukraine/Sweden vs Poland/Albania
Play-off Path C:
Semi-final: Turkey vs Romania
Semi-final: Slovakia vs Kosovo
Final: Slovakia/Kosovo vs Turkey/Romania
Play-off Path D:
Semi-final: Denmark vs North Macedonia
Semi-final: Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland
Final: Czech Republic/Republic of Ireland vs Denmark/North Macedonia
Additionally, the draw for the inter-confederation play-offs was announced, determining the final two teams to qualify for the 48-slot tournament.
Jamaica, who narrowly missed out on automatic qualification to Curacao, will face New Caledonia, with the victor going on to challenge the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Meanwhile, Bolivia will square off against Suriname for a chance to meet Iraq.
Who Has Qualified for the World Cup So Far?
As it stands, 42 teams have successfully secured their places for the 2026 World Cup, paving the way for an exciting tournament ahead.
