The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached an exciting climax, with just six places left before the tournament kicks off on June 11.
The opening match will see co-hosts Mexico face South Africa in Mexico City but before that, the football world is bracing for a decisive night of qualification drama.
Four European nations and two intercontinental playoff winners will complete the 48-team lineup joining hosts United States, Mexico and Canada.
Among the biggest storylines is four-time world champions Italy, who must win away to Bosnia and Herzegovina to avoid missing a third consecutive World Cup.
Meanwhile, emerging nations like Kosovo are chasing history, while teams including Iraq, DR Congo, Bolivia and Türkiye are aiming to end decades-long absences from football’s biggest stage.
EUROPEAN PLAYOFF FINALS
Path A: Italy’s Last Chance
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Italy (Zenica)
Edin Dzeko kept Bosnia alive with a 86th-minute goal against Wales, before his side triumphed 4-2 on penalties.
Now 40, Džeko could become one of the oldest outfield players in World Cup history but standing in his way is a desperate Italian side.
Italy, boosted by a 2-0 semifinal win over Northern Ireland, will rely on stars like Gianluigi Donnarumma, Sandro Tonali and Manuel Locatelli.
Path B: Sweden vs Poland (Stockholm)
Viktor Gyökeres inspired Sweden with a stunning hat trick in a 3-1 win over Ukraine.
Poland, led by Robert Lewandowski and Piotr Zielinski, fought back to beat Albania 2-1.
Sweden’s home advantage could prove decisive against Poland’s consistency.
Path C: Kosovo’s Fairytale vs Türkiye’s Power
Kosovo vs Türkiye (Pristina)
Kosovo stunned Slovakia 4-3 to reach the final, defying their low FIFA ranking.
They now face a talented Türkiye side boasting stars like Arda Güler, Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Kenan Yildiz.
With a hostile home crowd behind them, Kosovo could spring another surprise.
Path D: Czechia vs Denmark (Prague)
Czechia staged a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down to beat Ireland on penalties.
But Denmark arrive as strong favourites after a dominant 4-0 win over North Macedonia, powered by players like Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Højlund.
INTERCONTINENTAL PLAYOFF FINALS
Pathway 1: Africa vs Caribbean Clash
DR Congo vs Jamaica (Mexico)
DR Congo, nicknamed the “Warriors of the Equator,” bring top European-based talent including Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Arthur Masuaku, Yoane Wissa and captain Chancel Mbemba.
Jamaica scraped past New Caledonia 1-0 and will need a major improvement.
Pathway 2: Iraq vs Bolivia (Mexico)
Iraq face disruption due to regional conflict, with travel complications affecting preparations.
In contrast, Bolivia arrive battle-ready after a comeback 2-1 win over Suriname.
With Iraq lacking recent competitive matches, Bolivia may hold the edge.
Six Spots, One Night
By the end of Tuesday, the final six teams will be confirmed completing the lineup for the largest World Cup in history.
From Italy’s fight to avoid humiliation, to Kosovo’s dream run, and global playoff chaos, the stakes could not be higher.
The countdown is over. The world is watching. And for six nations, everything will be decided in one unforgettable night.
The Last Six Tickets
- Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Italy
- Sweden vs Poland
- Kosovo vs Türkiye
- DR Congo vs Jamaica
- Czechia vs Denmark
- Iraq vs Bolivia
