UEFA will conduct its second-round play-offs to decide the last four European teams that will qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Sixteen teams, including runners-up from the European qualifiers and teams from the UEFA Nations League, will compete in a knockout format across Europe, with matches scheduled for March 26 and 31.
The Union of European Football Associations will hold its second round play-off to determine the final four teams that will compete for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Twelve European nations have already secured direct qualification for the World Cup after finishing top of their respective groups.
That leaves four remaining slots left to claim. A total of 16 teams will enter the play-offs, 12 runners-up from the European qualifiers and four additional teams selected based on their performance in the UEFA Nations League. The 16 teams have been sorted into four pots:The teams from each pot will be divided into four separate paths, each consisting of a semifinal and a final to determine the four winners. The Pot 1 team will host the Pot 4 team and the Pot 2 team will host the Pot 3 team. The playoffs are being held in stadiums across Europe. RELATED: World Cup 2026 International Playoff tournament: 6 nations to face off for two World Cup berths All 12 matches will take place on March 26 and March 31. The four semifinal matches on March 26 and the finals are set for March 31.
UEFA FIFA World Cup Play-Offs European Qualifiers Football
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