Poland's Piotr Zielinski struck late to earn a 3-2 victory away to Malta on Monday but it was not enough to claim top spot in their World Cup qualifying group and they had to settle for a place in the playoffs for next year's finals.

The Republic of Ireland will be away to one of Poland, Wales, the Czech Republic or Slovakia in a World Cup playoff semi-final next March. A 7-1 victory for Wales over North Macedonia in Cardiff confirmed Ireland will be in Pot 3 for Thursday’s playoff draw in Zurich.

Despite their best effort and 3-2 win against Malta, Poland were unable to finish in first place of Group G in the UEFA 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

Piotr Zielinski struck late to earn Poland a 3-2 win away to Malta on Monday, securing the visitors a spot in next year's World Cup playoffs.Poland’s win at Ta'Qali's National Stadium lifted them to 17 points in Group G,

Jakub Kiwior was in the starting lineup and played the full 90 minutes in the match between Poland and Malta, which was part of the eighth and final round of European qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Poland's national football team drew 1-1 with the Netherlands in its penultimate 2026 World Cup qualifier in Warsaw on Friday, securing a place in the playoffs for next year's tournament in North America.

The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, with the biggest tournament in competition history all set to feature the best players in the world. From Harry Kane and England, to Argentina and Lionel Messi, next summer is likely to be a blockbuster event, and countries around the world are desperate to make it.

The 1-1 draw against Poland on Friday was not enough for the Netherlands; but after a 1-0 lead at halftime, today’s more than convincing 4-0 victory over Lithuania has now