Italy will face Northern Ireland at home on March 26 (here's the analysis of our opponent): a "do or die" match to reach the Playoff final.It's a situation we've seen before, a déjà-vu that ended

The inter-confederation draw has plotted Jamaica against New Caledonia and Bolivia against Suriname — with DR Congo and Iraq waiting in the two finals. Northern Ireland and Wales have been drawn in the same path as Italy, while Republic of Ireland will face Czech Republic before a potential home final against Denmark.

Italy will meet Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal on March 26, 2026, and if they progress, the Azzurri will face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away in the decisive Final.

Italy manager Gennaro Gattuso is bracing for a bruising battle against Northern Ireland in March when the sides meet in their playoff semi-final for next year's World Cup.

Italy will face Northern Ireland in the European playoffs in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup while Sweden meet Ukraine as 16 teams learned the pathways that determine the four remaining European slots for the global tournament.

Italy block the qualification path for Wales and Northern Ireland when it comes to reaching the 2026 World Cup, while the Republic of Ireland will face Czechia in the play-off semi-finals. There are four more places at FIFA's flagship event up for grabs in the UEFA section,