World Cup: Northern Ireland and Republic find out play-off opponents

Northern Ireland will face Italy in the World Cup Play-Off semi-final next year.

Michael O'Neill's side go to the 2006 winners for the semi-final on March 26th 2026 as they attempt to take the next step to book their place at next Summer's tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

The Republic of Ireland have been drawn away to Czechia.

Should both sides win their respective one-off matches, Northern Ireland will be away to the winners of Wales v Bosnia & Herzegovina on March 31st.

The Republic of Ireland would host either Denmark or North Macedonia in the final, should they emerge victorious over the Czechs.