Five European World Cup qualifiers to watch

European qualifying for the 2026 World Cup resumes this week, with 12 groups currently in progress. While 10 teams from other continents have already qualified alongside hosts Canada, Mexico, and the U.S., European spots remain undecided. Group winners will advance automatically, while runners-up and top Nations League performers will enter play-offs in March.

A key match in Group G features the Netherlands hosting Poland. The Dutch, with two wins and no goals conceded, are confident after recent victories over Finland and Malta. Poland, bolstered by the return of captain Robert Lewandowski after a dispute resolution, seeks to build on their decent qualifying start.

New Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso faces immediate pressure in his debut match against Estonia. Appointed after Luciano Spalletti's dismissal following a loss to Norway, Gattuso aims to prevent Italy from missing a third consecutive World Cup. The match may also feature the national team debut of new Liverpool signing Giovanni Leoni.