The ultimate make-up of the 48 teams to reach the United States, Mexico and Canada in June and July has been complicated by the war in Iran.
By Our Reporter
NEW YORK (CONVERSEER) – The impact of the expansion of the men’s World Cup to 48 teams will become clearer when several nations not used to the international limelight battle it out in the play-off semi-finals in Europe and Mexico.
The one-off matches set up finals at the end of March with the likes of Kosovo, Albania, North Macedonia, Suriname and New Caledonia all hoping to take a step towards a first football World Cup appearance.
In contrast, four-times champions Italy are fretting about missing the World Cup for a third straight edition and must beat Northern Ireland in Bergamo to set up a play-off final with Wales or the Bosnians.
The ultimate make-up of the 48 teams to reach the United States, Mexico and Canada in June and July has been complicated by the war in Iran. If the Islamic Republic, which has already qualified, does not participate then an extra spot will be up for grabs.
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Many sides who have sealed their place will be playing warm-up friendlies, while club football continues unabated before the international break as Arsenal host Manchester City in Sunday’s English League Cup final.
The semi-finals of the World Cup play-offs take place on Thursday.
