World Cup 2018 qualifying playoffs: Italy will take on Sweden

The draw for the last round of European qualifying for Russia 2018 has been held, and we’re in for some interesting games.

Former world champions Italy have been given a tricky draw in the playoffs for the 2018 World Cup. The Azzurri, which have lifted the trophy four times in the past, have been drawn against Sweden, which finished just four points behind France in qualifying group A.

Elsewhere in the draw, Switzerland will take on Northern Ireland. The Swiss finished qualification level on points with Portugal, but well behind on goal difference, as they didn’t always manage to break down the massed defences of the smaller teams in the group. The well-organised Northern Irish could pose a similar problem.

As for the other two ties, the Republic of Ireland, which made it to the playoffs at the expense of Euro 2016 heroes Wales, will play Denmark. And Croatia will take on Greece, which will go into that game as significant underdogs. FIFA’s rankings have them down in 47th place, some 32 places below their opponents.

Full World Cup playoff draw

Northern Ireland vs. Denmark
Croatia vs. Greece
Denmark vs. Republic of Ireland
Sweden vs. Italy

The first legs will be played between Nov. 9-11 and the return fixtures between Nov. 12-14.