November Qualifying Matches Set Stage for 2026 World Cup
DUBLIN – A series of compelling matches across Europe concluded November 21, considerably shifting the landscape of 2026 World Cup qualifying. Results ranged from dominant displays by France and Norway to surprising victories for Ireland and Albania, setting the stage for a fiercely contested final push for a place in the expanded 48-team tournament. These qualifying campaigns are crucial for nations vying to represent their continents at the first World Cup co-hosted across three countries: canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The expanded format of the 2026 World Cup has increased the stakes for European nations,offering more opportunities to qualify but also intensifying competition.These November fixtures represent a pivotal moment,with teams now assessing their positions and strategizing for the remaining qualifiers. Success in these matches directly impacts seeding, potential playoff berths, and ultimately, a nation’s chance to compete on the world’s biggest stage.
Here’s a rundown of the key results:
* Group A: England defeated Serbia 2-0 with goals from Bukayo saka (28′) and Eberechi Eze (90′).
* Group B: Albania secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Andorra,thanks to a 67th-minute goal from kristjan Asllani.
* Group C: Northern Ireland’s hopes took a hit with a 1-0 loss to Kazakhstan.
* Group D: France showcased their dominance with a 4-0 win against Ukraine. Kylian Mbappé scored twice, converting a 55′ penalty and adding another in the 83′, while Michael Olise (76′) and Hugo Ekitike (88′) completed the scoring.
* Group E: Poland drew 1-1 with the Czech Republic.
* Group F: Armenia fell to hungary 1-0, with Barnabas Varga netting the decisive goal in the 33rd minute.
* Group G: Norway thrashed Estonia 4-1. Alexander sorloth bagged a brace (50′, 52′), Erling Haaland added two more (56′, 62′), and Robi Saarma scored a consolation goal for Estonia in the 64th minute.
* Group H: Kazakhstan defeated San Marino 3-0.
* Group I: Ireland stunned Portugal with a 2-0 victory, fueled by a double from Troy Parrott (17′, 45′).
* Group J: Azerbaijan lost to Iceland 2-0, with Albert Gudmundsson (20′) and Sverrir Ingi Ingason (39′) finding the net.
* Group K: Moldova was defeated 2-0 by Italy,with late goals from Gianluca Mancini (88′) and Francesco Pio Esposito (90+3′).
ŁO,Polsat Sport,PAP
