Four teams advance in World Cup overnight! Denmark upset & Sweden's last-minute win, Turkey qualifies & Italy eliminated

On April 1 Beijing time, the European World Cup qualifying playoff finals ended, all decided in one match. Sweden scored in the final moments for a thrilling 3-2 victory over Poland, Turkey defeated Kosovo 1-0, Bosnia eliminated Italy 5-2 in a penalty shootout after Italy had 10 players, and Denmark was unexpectedly beaten 3-5 by Czech Republic in penalties. Thus, Turkey, Bosnia, Sweden, and Czech Republic qualify for the World Cup. For the USA-Canada-Mexico World Cup, 46 of the 48 spots are now confirmed!

Sweden faced Poland. Sweden performed carelessly in the group stage, finishing embarrassingly at the bottom without a win, but secured a playoff spot thanks to strong Nations League results. They then surged, beating Ukraine 3-1 to reach the playoff final. In the final against Poland led by Lewandowski, despite not dominating the game, Sweden twice scored to lead. Poland resiliently equalized twice. In the 88th minute, Jokeres scored the decisive goal, Sweden winning 3-2 to qualify for the World Cup—truly dramatic!

Czech Republic met Denmark. Czech Republic was dominated in play, but struck early with a quick goal. Denmark controlled possession but couldn't score until the 72nd minute to equalize 1-1, pushing the match into extra time. In extra time, Czech Republic again scored first to take the lead. Denmark quickly responded with a lightning goal to level. The match went to penalties, where Denmark performed poorly, ultimately losing 3-5 and suffering a shocking exit, allowing Czech Republic to return to the World Cup after 20 years!

Turkey played Kosovo. With Aktürkoğlu's winning goal, Turkey secured a 1-0 economical victory, qualifying for the World Cup after 24 years!

Italy faced Bosnia. In the first half, Italy capitalized on a gift from Bosnia's goalkeeper with Kean scoring to take the lead. However, Bastoni's malicious flying tackle resulted in a direct red card, leaving Italy with 10 men. Italy had to shift to defensive tactics, enduring Bosnia's relentless attacks. Despite Donnarumma's repeated heroic saves, Bosnia scrambled to score, tying 1-1 into extra time. Extra time yielded no goals, leading to a brutal penalty shootout. Italy's penalty performance was poor, and Bosnia won 5-2, eliminating Italy, marking Italy's third consecutive World Cup absence!

Text/Sports Novel