2026 World Cup playoffs: Italy already feeling the fear

Naomi Girma has been named to the US women's national team roster for upcoming friendlies against Italy on November 28 and December 1. The defender returns after recovering from a calf injury that sidelined her since the start of the season with Chelsea. Girma recently played in Chelsea's Champions League match against St Pölten and participated in a draw with Liverpool, marking her first involvement with the US team since July 2.

The qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup have concluded, but playoff matches remain, with 22 national teams vying for six available spots. These playoffs will determine which teams will join the already qualified nations in the tournament, adding an element of suspense and excitement as teams prepare for their final chance to secure a place in the prestigious event.

Haiti's qualification for the 2026 World Cup is being celebrated as a significant moment of national pride and collective relief. The Haitian Football Federation has expressed gratitude for the support received during the qualifying campaign, marking a historic return to the tournament after a 52-year absence.

Italy secured their place in the Elite Round of the European Under-19 Championship with a narrow 1-0 victory over Poland. The win was crucial as Italy needed to finish among the top two teams in their group to advance. This victory not only highlights Italy's strong performance in the tournament but also underscores their potential as a competitive force in youth football on the European stage.

Italy faced a challenging World Cup qualifier against Norway, needing to win by nine goals to secure top position in Group I. Despite their efforts, Italy suffered a significant defeat, losing 4-1. Head coach Gennaro Gattuso highlighted the team's 'fear and fragility' in the aftermath of the match, indicating that the chances for automatic qualification were slim even before the game began. This loss raises concerns about Italy's performance and future in international football.

Morocco's national football team, the Atlas Lions, has already secured a spot in the 2026 World Cup. However, they may face a challenging draw, similar to Algeria's Fennecs. As they prepare for the tournament, the potential for a difficult group could impact their chances of advancing in the competition. The draw will determine the teams Morocco will compete against, and the outcome could significantly influence their World Cup journey.

Germany has successfully qualified for the 2026 World Cup, marking a significant achievement for the national football team. This qualification reflects the team's strong performance in the qualifying matches, showcasing their skill and determination on the international stage. The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, providing an exciting opportunity for teams to compete in a prestigious tournament.