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World Cup play-offs: Türkiye and Sweden qualify, Italy eliminated

sportsMar 31, 2026361,074

Türkiye beat Kosovo 1-0 and qualified for the 2026 World Cup for the first time in 22 years. Sweden beat Poland 3-2 in a dramatic playoff and will return to the 2026 finals after an eight-year absence. Bosnia beat Italy on penalties, eliminating Italy and denying them a place at the 2026 World Cup. Türkiye will join the United States, Paraguay and Australia in their group, while Italy's shock exit reshapes European representation at the tournament.

Key Highlights

Türkiye beat Kosovo 1-0, qualifying for the World Cup after 22 years.
Sweden beat Poland 3-2 to reach the World Cup after eight years.
Bosnia eliminated Italy on penalties, knocking Italy out of the World Cup.
3 sources
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