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After the group stages towards the 2026 World Cup, Italy heads to the playoffs in the first tier: between semifinals and possible finals, two opponents stand out more than the others.

With yesterday’s games, the discussion on the group stages for qualification for the 2026 World Cup has definitively concluded. As it is now known, unfortunately, our Italy closed behind Norway and will be forced into the playoffs. However, there is a positive aspect: the Azzurri are in the first tier, which means we will not face Denmark, Turkey, and Ukraine. A small sigh of relief.

The possible opponents in the playoff semifinals are Sweden, Northern Ireland, Macedonia, and Romania. Starting from the assumption, as it should be, that each opponent is formidable, it almost becomes automatic to hope not to draw Sweden.

It is true that the Scandinavians finished last in a rather modest group with Switzerland, Slovenia, and Kosovo, but what is truly frightening is their squad: Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, Anthony Elanga, the two very young Larsson and Bergvall in midfield, plus Atalanta’s Hien and former United player Lindelöf in defense. Not to mention that it was Sweden who prevented us from qualifying for the 2018 World Cup, one of the most painful chapters in our recent history.

Even Northern Ireland and Macedonia bring back memories far from pleasant, but the most challenging team, at least on paper, remains Sweden.

Italy’s lineup (PHOTO BY SALVATORE FORNELLI)

Italy, danger from Poland in the final

Looking at the possible final, the Azzurri could face one of Poland, Wales, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ireland, Albania, Bosnia, and Kosovo. They are all competitive national teams, but the opponent to absolutely avoid is Poland.

The team captained by Robert Lewandowski has talent, physicality, and experience. Coach Urban can rely on high-level players and also on several Italians, including Skorupski, Kiwior, Zielinski, Zalewski, and Piatek. A solid formation, capable of punishing the slightest mistake, and far from ideal in a one-off match that determines a World Cup spot.

Probably, on other occasions, we would have been guilty of presumption by saying that none of these teams can truly scare the Azzurri. But the recent experiences, real scars for millions of fans, have taught us humility. It will require maximum attention, absolute concentration, and zero errors. Because failing to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup would be almost a tombstone on our football.

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The final day of Group J will see Belgium take on Liechtenstein, in what is a real bottom-of-the-table clash.

The curtain falls on Group J of the European qualifiers for next year’s World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

The solitary group leader, but not yet sure of the World Cup spot, will face a team that has not yet earned a point.

The Red Devils, in fact, top the standings with 15 points, compared to the 13 of the chasing pack, namely Wales and North Macedonia.

A very different situation for the visitors, who are last and out of contention for a long time.

Belgium’s Lineup

Belgium is missing the final step to secure a spot in the upcoming North American World Cup.

The team coached by Rudi Garcia, if they win, will not have to worry about the results of the chasing teams and can enter the club of qualifiers.

The former Roma coach will deploy the 4-2-3-1 formation, a trademark of his tenure as coach of the Red Devils.

In goal will be Sels, protected in defense by the quartet of Meunier, Faes, Debast, and De Cuyper.

In midfield, a duo of Tielemans and Onana, with Trossard, De Ketelaere, and Doku supporting the lone striker Lukebakio.

Liechtenstein’s Lineup

Zero points in seven games played so far for Liechtenstein under coach Funfstuck.

Given the situation, it is expected that the match in Liege will be only an experimental game, with no ambition for a classic result.

The negative streak so far, indeed, does not allow any hope for achieving an objective.

In the starting eleven, Buchel will guard the goal, protected by Traber, Malin, and Hofer.

In midfield, there will be Kindle, Luchinger, Hasler, Sele, and Goppel, while up front the duo Saglam-Luque Notaro.

Possible Lineups

Belgium (4-2-3-1): Sels; Meunier, Faes, Debast, de Cuyper; Tielemans, Onana; Trossard, De Ketelaere, Doku; Lukebakio. Coach: Rudi Garcia

Liechtenstein (3-5-2): Buchel; Traber, Malin, Hofer; Kindle, Luchinger, Hasler, Sele, Goppel; Saglam, Luque-Notaro. Coach: Funfstuck

Where to Watch

The match between Belgium and Liechtenstein, scheduled this evening at 8:45 PM, will be broadcast on Sky Sport and on the UEFA TV website.