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2026 World Cup playoff draws: Reactions, predictions, more 2026 World Cup playoff draws: Reactions, predictions, more

Six spots remain up for grabs at the 2026 World Cup, with four to emerge from Europe and a further two from an intercontinental playoff. What's the draw, and who will advance? We make our picks.

Wright on England's Bellingham: Critics not 'ready for black superstar' Wright on England's Bellingham: Critics not 'ready for black superstar'

Former England striker Ian Wright has defended Jude Bellingham, insisting some people are not "ready for a black superstar."

Could the Rep. of Ireland cause an upset in the World Cup qualifiers? Could the Rep. of Ireland cause an upset in the World Cup qualifiers?

Mark Ogden backs the Republic of Ireland to make it through the playoffs and end their 24-year World Cup drought.

World Cup playoff draw: Wales, Ireland, NI learn path to World Cup - as it happened World Cup playoff draw: Wales, Ireland, NI learn path to World Cup - as it happened

For Wales, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, their path to the 2026 World Cup is now clear. Follow ESPN for the latest news and reaction.

World Cup playoff draw: Ireland face Czechia in semifinals World Cup playoff draw: Ireland face Czechia in semifinals

The Republic of Ireland will travel to Czechia in the World Cup European playoff semifinals in March as they discovered their route to next summer's tournament.

World Cup playoff draw: Italy get N. Ireland, Wales or Bosnia World Cup playoff draw: Italy get N. Ireland, Wales or Bosnia

Italy will first host Northern Ireland in a World Cup qualifying playoff in March but then would go on the road to reach their first tournament after back-to-back failures at this stage.