Dramatic World Cup Qualifiers See Upsets and Set Stage for Final Playoff Battles
Switzerland, Scotland, Spain, Austria, Belgium, and Wales all secured their places—or a pathway to—the upcoming World Cup, while other nations face a tense wait for the additional qualifiers in March. The recent flurry of matches across Europe delivered dramatic results, stunning comebacks, and heartbreak for some hopefuls.
Swiss Secure Passage, Kosovo’s Dream Continues
Switzerland qualified for their 13th World Cup, and a sixth consecutive appearance, after a 1-1 draw against Kosovo. The Swiss entered the match needing to avoid a loss by more than six goals, a task made easier by Ruben Vargas’s 47th-minute opener. Kosovo responded through Florent Muslija in the 74th minute, but it wasn’t enough to deny the Swiss. Despite the draw, Kosovo, aiming for their first-ever World Cup berth, will participate in an additional qualifier next month.
Scotland Stun Denmark in Thrilling Encounter
In a match described as “very dramatic and changing,” Scotland defeated Denmark 4-2 to claim first place in Group C. Scott McTominay put the Scots ahead early, but Rasmus Hojlund equalized for Denmark. A red card for Rasmus Kristensen shifted the momentum, but Patrick Dorgu quickly leveled the score again. A late surge, fueled by goals from Kieran Tierney in added time and Kenny McLean with a spectacular strike from the center line, sealed a memorable victory for Scotland. This marks Scotland’s eighth World Cup qualification, their first since 1998.
Spain Survive Scare, Turkey’s Hopes Deferred
European champions Spain secured their place at the World Cup despite a 2-2 draw with Turkey. Dani Olmo gave Spain an early lead, but goals from Deniz Gul and Salih Ozcan turned the tables. Mikel Oyarzabal’s 62nd-minute equalizer salvaged a point for Spain, who will compete in their 13th consecutive and 17th overall World Cup. Turkey, seeking a return to the tournament for the first time since 2002, will now have to navigate the additional qualifiers in March.
Austria Edge Bosnia, Romania Dominate San Marino
Austria and Bosnia and Herzegovina played to a 1-1 draw, with Austria ultimately securing qualification. Haris Tabakovičius gave Bosnia an early lead, but a controversial disallowed goal for Austria in the first half added to the tension. Michael Gregoritsch eventually found the net in the 78th minute to secure the draw and a spot in the World Cup for Austria, their seventh appearance and first this century, having last competed in 1998. Bosnia will now compete in the additional selection process. Romania also enjoyed a dominant 7-1 victory over San Marino.
Belgium and Wales Cruise to Playoff Spots
Belgium showcased their attacking prowess with a 7-0 win over Liechtenstein, securing their World Cup qualification in “impressive fashion.” Five different players scored for the Red Devils: Hans Vanaken, Jeremy Doku (two goals), Brandon Mechele, Alexis Saelemaekers, and Charles De Ketelaere (two goals). Wales also secured a place in the supplementary selection after a resounding 7-1 victory against North Macedonia, with Harry Wilson scoring a hat-trick.
England, France, Croatia, Portugal, Norway, the Netherlands, and Germany had already secured their spots from the European selection zone. A further 16 teams will now battle it out in additional qualifiers for the remaining four tournament berths.
