who will italy play in the world cup playoffs

Italy will play Northern Ireland in the World Cup 2026 European play‑off semi‑final, and if they win, they will face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play‑off final.

Who Italy will play

• Semi‑final: Italy vs Northern Ireland, a single‑leg tie to be played in Italy on March 26, 2026.

• Potential final: Away to the winner of Wales vs Bosnia and Herzegovina on March 31, 2026.

So when asking who will Italy play in the World Cup playoffs , the confirmed first opponent is Northern Ireland, with a possible second match against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina if the Azzurri advance.