Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Portugal and Norway Seal World Cup Spots as Italy, Ireland and Ukraine Head to Playoffs

The March playoff will award four remaining European berths under UEFA's 16-team format.

Overview

  • Portugal clinched Group F with a 9–1 rout of Armenia in Porto to qualify directly.
  • Norway topped Group I after a 4–1 win in Milan over Italy, which dropped into the playoff bracket.
  • Ireland secured second in Group F with a 3–2 away victory against Hungary to reach the playoff stage.
  • Ukraine finished second in Group D and will continue its campaign in the playoff round.
  • Portugal became Europe's fourth qualifier and Norway the fifth, with the finals scheduled for June 11–July 19, 2026, in the United States, Mexico and Canada.