European playoff results for the 2026 World Cup
The European qualifying path for the 2026 World Cup concluded with four teams securing their spots through playoff victories. Turkey defeated Kosovo 1-0, while Sweden triumphed over Poland 3-2 with a late goal from Gyökeres. The Czech Republic secured their place by winning 3-1 on penalties against Denmark, and Bosnia and Herzegovina eliminated Italy after a 1-1 draw and a 4-1 penalty shootout victory. The Italian side, coached by Gennaro Gattuso, played with ten men for most of the match following a red card issued to Bastoni in the 41st minute. The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Intercontinental playoffs are ongoing in Mexico to determine the final tournament participants, featuring matchups between Bolivia, Suriname, Iraq, New Caledonia, Jamaica, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The final tournament will consist of 48 teams divided into 12 groups.