Five nations step forward: Format explained and full list of teams heading to Europe’s 2026 playoff round

Several nations officially securing their places in the UEFA playoff round as group campaigns near completion.

Under UEFA’s qualification format, only the 12 group winner qualify directly for the World Cup.

The 12 runners up advance to the playoffs where they will be joined by four Nations League teams that failed to qualify directly or reach the playoffs via their qualifying groups.

With multiple groups now completed, the playoff picture is becoming clearer.

Ireland stun Hungary to take Group F playoff ticket

Ireland clinched second place in Group F with dramatic 3-2 victory in Budapest leapfrogging Hungary on the final day.

Portugal had already secured top spot and automatic qualification.

Ukraine claim second place behind France

In Group D, Ukraine confirmed their playoff spot with professional 2 -0 win over Iceland finishing behind France who qualified directly.

Albania secure Group 11 runners up position

Albania had already sealed second place in Group 11 behind England prior to their 2- 0 defeat to the Three Lions on Sunday.

Czech Republic wrap up Group 12 second place

The Czech Republic booked their place in the playoffs after narrow 1-0 win over San Marino on Thursday securing second place behind group winners Croatia with match to spare.

Italy fall to Norway but still qualify for the playoff

Despite heavy 4-1 loss to Norway, Italy finished second in their group, three point behind the Norwegians who sealed direct qualification.

The Azzurri will now attempt to reach the World Cup through the playoff path; a scenario they know all too well after missing the 2018 and 2022 editions.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.