When are the 2026 World Cup play-offs being played? Date, nations, format explained and where to watch

The World Cup line-up is almost complete as 42 nations have booked their place in next summer’s tournament.

But for 22 other countries, their nerves over claiming a spot in North America will carry on, as they compete for the last six places.

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The Republic of Ireland dramatically kept their hopes of qualification alive thanks to a last-gasp Troy Parrott goal against Hungary.

Tears were shed as a play-off place was secured, but focus will now turn to claiming a spot in the biggest tournament on the planet.

Italy and Sweden are among the strong sides that are featuring in the European section, with Wales and Northern Ireland joining them.

Here’s all you need to know about the World Cup play-offs…

When are World Cup play-offs played?

The World Cup 2026 play-offs will begin on March 26, 2026.

It will start with the semi-finals on that date, before the finals are scheduled for five days later on March 31.

Home teams for each semi-final and final have to confirm which stadium they will be playing at by December 19.

talkSPORT and talkSPORT.com will be right across all of the action.

To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream. Listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.

It is not yet confirmed which TV channels will show the games.

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World Cup play-offs fixtures

Europe

Path A

• Italy vs Northern Ireland
• Wales vs Bosnia and Herzegovina

Path B

• Ukraine vs Sweden
• Poland vs Albania

Path C

• Turkey vs Romania
• Slovakia vs Kosovo

Path D

• Denmark vs North Macedonia
• Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland

Inter-confederation

Pathway 1

• Semi-final: New Caledonia vs Jamaica
• Final: New Caledonia / Jamaica vs DR Congo

Pathway 2

• Semi-final: Bolivia vs Suriname
• Final: Bolivia / Suriname vs Iraq