Türkiye and Sweden Qualify for 2026 World Cup as Kosovo, Poland Exit Playoffs

Turkey and Sweden have secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following hard-fought playoff victories over Kosovo and Poland.

Türkiye edged Kosovo 1-0 in Pristina to end a 24-year absence from the tournament, marking their first World Cup appearance since 2002. Kerem Aktürkoğlu scored the decisive goal in the 53rd minute, sealing victory in a tense encounter.

Ranked 25th in the world, Türkiye’s qualification represents a significant milestone after years of disappointment in the qualifiers. Under coach Vincenzo Montella, the team has rebuilt into a balanced and competitive side.

Kosovo, ranked 79th, saw their impressive campaign come to an end just short of what would have been their first-ever major tournament appearance.

In another dramatic playoff, Sweden defeated Poland 3-2 to book their place at the World Cup. Anthony Elanga opened the scoring before Nicola Zalewski equalised.

Gustaf Lagerbielke restored Sweden’s lead before halftime, but Karol Świderski brought Poland level again in the second half.

The decisive moment came late on when Viktor Gyökeres netted the winner, sending Sweden through after a thrilling contest.

Sweden will now compete in Group F at the 2026 World Cup alongside Netherlands, Japan and Tunisia, marking their return to the tournament for the first time since 2018.