2026 FIFA World Cup qualification

This process is notable because it represents the last chance for national teams to qualify for the world's most-watched sporting event. The playoffs are particularly dramatic as they often involve high-stakes, single-elimination matches where a single game can make or break a team's World Cup dreams.

The World Cup playoffs have been a major news topic recently due to the conclusion of the draw, which determined the specific matchups for the European qualification path. Major news outlets have reported on the high-profile fixtures set for this stage, including matches such as Italy versus Northern Ireland and Wales against Bosnia and Herzegovina. These draws set the stage for the decisive matches that will finalize the list of participants for the 2026 World Cup.