ZURICH, Nov 20, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - Four-time World Cup winners Italy will face Northern Ireland in the semi-finals of the European playoffs for the 2026 tournament, following the draw on Thursday.

If Italy get through that match, they will play the winner of Wales's semi-final against Bosnia-Herzegovina.

In other eye-catching matchups, war-torn Ukraine will play a star-studded Sweden team that could feature Liverpool forward Alexander Isak and Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres.

If the Ukrainians get past the Swedes, they will face the winner of Poland's match against Albania.

The Republic of Ireland must travel to the Czech Republic and the winner of that match will host the winner of the semi-final between Denmark and North Macedonia.