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    Bitter Italy defender Bonucci slams ‘absurd’ World Cup qualifying route for European clubs after play-off humiliation

    VETERAN Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci blasted the World Cup qualifying format after the Euro 2020 winners failed to book their ticket for the tournament. The Azzurri will not be in Qatar later this year after being beaten 1-0 by minnows North Macedonia in a play-off last week.
    Bonucci has hit out at the World Cup qualifying formatCredit: Getty
    Despite being unbeaten in their qualifying group campaign, Italy finished as runners-up to Switzerland, meaning they had to qualify for the tournament via the dreaded play-offs.
    A semi-final pitted them against North Macedonia, with the prospect of facing either Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal or Turkey in the play-off final for a World Cup berth.
    Italy though were beaten at the first hurdle, with a dramatic 92nd minute Aleksandar Trajkovski goal ending their World Cup dream.
    But a bitter Bonucci, 34, has furiously labelled the format as “absurd” after Roberto Mancini’s side were knocked out by the result.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}ROAD TO QATAR .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}When is the 2022 Qatar World Cup and who has qualified?
    The Juventus defender seethed after the embarrassing defeat: “We played it all in a one-off match, it’s an absurd system.
    “Unfortunately, that’s the way it went, but it’s a crazy decision. You have to play a single game in which anything can happen as we have seen.
    “There are teams that qualified after losing four or five games, we are at home after losing only one in the 92nd minute. It is truly madness.
    “Clearly the regulation is not an alibi or an excuse, we certainly had to do better. But from here we have to take inspiration to find the way back to where we were.
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    “There were many reflections. Certainly after Euro 2020 we got a bit lost. This compromised our path to the World Cup.”
    Bonucci though can’t say that Italy didn’t have the chance to qualify.
    The Azzurri won just one out of their last five group stage qualifiers, drawing the other four.
    If just one of those draws had been converted into a win, the reigning Euro 2020 champions would have automatically booked their ticket to Qatar.
    It wasn’t to be though, and the 2006 World Cup winners have now failed to qualify for two consecutive tournaments. More

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    When is the World Cup 2022 draw? Date, UK start time, TV channel, live stream free and pot info

    WITH the World Cup qualifiers coming to a close, nations can begin to look ahead to the draw which takes place THIS FRIDAY.The hosts Qatar will be put into Pot 1 along with the World Cup holders France and Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions.
    England could face Germany who currently rank 11th in the FIFA Coca Cola World rankings.Credit: Getty
    But when is the draw and how does the draw work?
    When is the draw?

    The World Cup draw will be held on FRIDAY – April 1, 2022.
    It will take place from 4pm UK time – 6pm local time in Qatar, Doha.
    The draw will decide the group stages for the tournament which kicks off on November 21, 2022.

    How does the draw work?

    The teams have been divided into four pots determined by their current FIFA ranking.
    Hosts Qatar will be in Pot 1 alongside the top seven sides which includes the likes of England, France and Brazil.

    Who is in what pot?
    Pot 1

    Qatar
    Brazil
    Belgium
    France
    Argentina
    England
    Spain
    Portugal

    Pot 2

    Netherlands
    Denmark
    Germany
    Switzerland
    Uruguay
    Croatia
    USA/Mexico/Senegal

    Pot 3

    Iran
    Japan
    Morocco
    Serbia
    Poland
    South Korea
    Senegal/Canada/Tunisia/Cameroon

    Pot 4

    Ecuador
    Saudi Arabia
    Ghana
    Canada/Tunisia/Cameroon/UEFA Playoff winner/ CONEMBOL-AFC winner/CONCACAF-Oceania playoff winner

    Teams without pots will be decided based on the final results of the fixtures which are yet to be played out.
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    Who could England face and what are the pots?
    England will play one team each from Pot 2, Pot 3 and Pot 4.
    The only restrictions are that no more than two European teams can be drawn together and no more than one team each from any other continent can be in one group.
    Here’s how the pots could look.
    Pot 1

    Qatar (hosts)
    Belgium
    France
    Argentina
    Brazil
    England
    Spain
    Portugal

    Pot 2

    Netherlands
    Denmark
    Mexico
    Germany
    USA
    Switzerland
    Uruguay
    Croatia

    Pot 3

    Senegal
    Iran
    Japan
    Serbia
    Morocco
    Poland
    South Korea
    Tunisia or Canada

    Pot 4

    Canada or Tunisia
    Cameroon
    Ecuador
    Saudi Arabia
    Ghana
    Wales or Scotland or Ukraine
    Peru or Australia or United Arab Emirates
    Winner of intercontinental play-off 2

    How can I watch the World Cup 2022 draw?
    FIFA are live streaming the ceremony for free on their website, with the BBC also expected to provide coverage for viewers in the United Kingdom. More

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    When is the 2022 Qatar World Cup and who has qualified?

    FANS across the world are anxiously waiting for the World Cup draw as the qualifying rounds draw to a close.This will be the final time we witness footballs biggest competition endure 32 teams before it expands to 48 nations in 2026.
    The Qatar World Cup will be the first ever winter World Cup.Credit: Getty
    And all eyes will be on the draw to see what every countries fate is for the first ever World Cup to take place in the winter.
    When is the World Cup draw and when does the tournament start?

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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}WORLD CUP DRAW .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}All the info on draw for Qatar 2022 World Cup
    Which teams have qualified for Qatar?
    UEFA

    Germany
    Denmark
    France
    Belgium
    Croatia
    Spain
    Serbia
    England
    Switzerland
    Netherlands
    Portugal
    Poland

    Conmebol

    Brazil
    Argentina
    Ecuador
    Uruguay
    Peru/Colombia/Chile – go to inter-confederation play-off

    CAF

    Ghana
    Senegal
    Tunisia
    Morocco
    Cameroon

    AFC

    Iran
    South Korea
    Qatar (hosts)
    Japan
    Saudi Arabia
    Australia/United Arab Emirates will go through to inter-confederation play-off

    OFC

    New Zealand/Solomon Islands

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    Who can still qualify for the World Cup?
    So far, 27 teams have qualified for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar leaving only FIVE more spots up for grabs.
    By the end of March 30, there will only be four spots left following New Zealand vs Solomon Islands.
    Below are the other teams which can still qualify:

    USA
    Mexico
    Costa Rica
    Australia
    United Arab Emirates
    Peru
    Colombia
    Chile More

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    Fifa doctor dies after furious Nigeria fans storm pitch in sickening scenes after failing to qualify for World Cup

    A FIFA doctor died while on duty during Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier between Nigeria and Ghana. Fans stormed the pitch at the Abuja National Stadium after Nigeria failed to qualify for this year’s tournament – smashing up their own arena in shocking scenes.
    Dr Joseph Kabungo (left) passed away while working at the World Cup qualifier between Nigeria and Ghana
    A doctor has passed away after Nigeria fans stormed the pitch following their World Cup qualifier defeatCredit: AP
    Violent clashed ensued after the final whistleCredit: AP
    Then on Wednesday morning the Zambian FA confirmed Doctor Joseph Kabungo, who was acting as a doping officer at the game for the Confederation of African Football, had passed away while working.
    A statement said: “The Football Association of Zambia joins the rest of the football family in mourning the late Dr Joseph Kabungo.
    “Dr Kabungo, a CAF/FIFA medical officer was on duty in Abuja for the second leg, the final qualifying match between Nigeria and Ghana that ended 1-1.”
    President of the ZAF Andrew Kamanga did not reveal the cause of his death.
    .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}FAN ANGER .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Watch Nigeria fans smash up stadium after failing to qualify for World Cup
    He said: “We take note that it is too early to dwell into the nitty-gritty of the cause of his death but will wait for the full report from CAF and FIFA on what exactly transpired.
    “He was a dedicated and widely loved member of our football community and his impact was vast, having also been part of the 2012 Africa Cup-winning team.
    “His death is a huge loss as Dr Kabungo was a friend and confidant to many generations of players and their families.
    “He was one of the outstanding Zambian football personalities that flew the Zambian flag at global football events.
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    “We all have to learn from his example of excellence and celebrate his legacy by breeding more hard-working football Zambian administrators.”
    Nigeria’s 1-1 draw at home to Ghana saw the visitors qualify for the World Cup on away goals after a 0-0 draw in the first leg.
    Ugly scenes ensued after the final whistle as the Nigeria supporters proceeded to storm the pitch and smash up their own ground.
    The home fans clashed with police, who fired tear gas in an attempt to remove them, and tore down dugouts as their fury was channelled into violent acts in the stadium.
    Ghana fans were subsequently moved onto the pitch after a number of them were reportedly attacked in the stands.
    And the visiting players were forced to run for cover after being pelted with bottles. More

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    World Cup 2022 qualifiers LIVE RESULTS: Peru QUALIFY for play-off, Argentina draw, Colombia and Chile OUT, Brazil win

    SOUTH AMERICAN World Cup qualifiers have reached their conclusion.Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador and Uruguay have confirmed their places, and it’s Peru who will be going to the intercontinental play-off.
    The Peruvians made light work of Paraguay, making Colombia and Chile’s results irrelevant.
    Meanwhile Luis Suarez became the all-time record goalscorer in South American World Cup qualifying.
    Full time results

    Bolivia 0 Brazil 4
    Ecuador 1 Argentina 1
    Peru 2 Paraguay 0
    Chile 0 Uruguay 2
    Venezuela 0 Colombia 1

    Get all the latest football news and updates here…
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    To be continued…
    That’s the end of the scheduled South American World Cup qualifying calendar and all the teams into the World Cup and the play-offs are known.
    Congratulations to Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador and Peru.
    However, there is still one fixture of South American World Cup qualifying left, ironically between two sides who qualified months ago.
    Leaders Brazil face second placed Argentina at a date, time and venue yet to be confirmed.
    That’s because the original match was postponed due to the Brazilian Health Authorities invading the pitch to deport four Argentina stars for breaching Covid quarantine regulations.
    Brazil’s rescheduled match against Argentina is still to be played
    Record breaker
    Lionel Messi has enjoyed a fantastic qualifying campaign with Argentina.
    But his goal record in South American World Cup qualifiers has been broken by none other than ex-Barcelona team-mate and close friend Luis Suarez.
    Suarez’s brilliant overhead kick for Uruguay in Chile means he is now out on his own as the all-time record scorer in South American World Cup qualifying.
    Luis Suarez is the all-time top scorer in South American World Cup qualifiers
    Gift of the gab
    Arsenal fans will be loving what they’re seeing from Gabriel Martinelli.
    Shades of Dennis Bergkamp in the way he turns his way through the Bolivia defence. Only the finish is lacking.

    Record breakers
    Argentina equal their longest ever unbeaten streak – 31 straight games.
    But it’s still not enough for them to top the group.
    Brazil end up in top spot with 45 points from just 17 games.
    Argentina now undefeated in 31 matches. Their longest undefeated streak ever which equals their best undefeated run of 31 matches between 1991-1993. pic.twitter.com/n2zKsaW9Yz— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) March 30, 2022

    FULL TIME: Venezuela 0 Colombia 1
    James Rodriguez’s retaken penalty is enough to earn an unimpressive Colombia side their first win in Venezuela since 1996.
    But it hasn’t stopped them being eliminated from the World Cup thanks to Peru’s result.
    90+5: Ecuador 1 Argentina 1
    Incredible noise from the Ecuador support.
    The city of Guayaquil is known for it’s passion for football but rarely gets to see the national team play as Ecuador tend to opt for the altitude of Quito.
    They’re making the most of it tonight on the country’s South West coast!
    FULL TIME: Peru 2 Paraguay 0
    Job done extremely professionally for Ricardo Gareca’s side.
    Goals from Gianluca Lapadula and Yosimar Yotun in the first half prove enough to send them to the intercontinental play-off.
    They will meet Australia or the United Arab Emirates in Qatar in June.
    PERU QUALIFY FOR THE WORLD CUP PLAY-OFF!
    GOAL FOR ECUADOR!
    Enner Valencia sees his spot kick saved by Jeronimo Rulli.
    But the Argentine goalkeeper is unbelievably unlucky as the ball falls straight at the former West Ham man’s feet.
    Valencia has all the time in the world to tap home the equaliser.
    A huge morale-boosting point for the Ecuadorians as they plan for Qatar.
    PENALTY TO ECUADOR!
    90: Chile 0 Uruguay 2
    Federico Valverde makes the game safe for Uruguay.
    Only a couple of rounds ago they were looking like missing out on the World Cup altogether.
    But Diego Alonso has done a fantastic job coming in and steadying the ship following the departure of Oscar Tabarez.
    FULL TIME: Bolivia 0 Brazil 4
    GOAL FOR URUGUAY!
    GOAL FOR BRAZIL!
    It’s a fourth for Brazil and a second for Richarlison.
    They haven’t quite climbed Everest, but they’ve conquered the altitude of La Paz with consummate ease.
    Bolivia 0 Brazil 4
    A sight for Suar eyes
    Like a fine wine, Luis Suarez is getting better with age.
    An incredible overhead kick to give Uruguay the lead in Chile.

    79: Venezuela 0 Colombia 1
    A carnival atmosphere in Ciudad Guayana as the Mexican Wave gets started.
    Both sets of fans probably starting to realise this is it for their sides.
    Venezuela not looking too much like equalising and qualification for the World Cup is completely out of Colombia’s hands.
    78: Venezuela 0 Colombia 1
    Venezuela’s Soteldo causing havoc again as he beats his man and fires a shot across the box.
    But nobody is there to tap it in.
    Colombia look like they’re heading for a first World Cup qualifying victory in Venezuela since 1996.
    Not that that will provide them much comfort if Peru hold onto their 2-0 lead against Paraguay.
    75: Chile 0 Uruguay 1
    The curtain is about to come down on Chile’s greatest every football era.
    Started by Marcelo Bielsa back in 2007, the Chileans impressed in both the 2010 and 2014 World Cups as well as winning two Copa America trophies against Messi and Argentina.
    But a goal from Uruguay’s Luis Suarez means that they will not be going to this year’s competition.
    And it’s almost certainly the last time Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez will be seen representing their country.
    GOAL FOR URUGUAY!
    Bearing the brun-t
    It’s a pleasure to watch this Brazil team at the moment.
    A beautiful volley from Bruno Guimaraes is set to make it 17 played, 14 wins, three draws and no defeats.

    60: Bolivia 0 Brazil 3
    It’s a delight for Newcastle fans.
    Bruno Guimaraes has bagged a goal and an assist in La Paz as Brazil head for a record-breaking campaign.
    GOAL FOR BRAZIL
    Chil-ling out
    In Chile, the fans are starting to realise the game is up and have taken to applauding Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez every time they touch the ball.
    At 34 and 33 respectively, this is likely to be the last time the fans see either playing for their national team and they’re determined to make the most of it.
    51: Venezuela 0 Colombia 1
    A good run from Yeferson Soteldo, who runs down the left and crosses for Rondon, who heads wide.
    The Everton star will be very disappointed with himself if he doesn’t get a goal tonight.
    Paying the penalty
    James Rodriguez’s penalty which put Colombia in front at the second attempt in Venezuela.
    James Rodríguez scores at the second attempt from the spot, after the initial save was chalked off for Fariñez being off his line! 🇨🇴A big goal for Colombia but, with Peru 2-0 up, it may all be in vain 👀 pic.twitter.com/ugVuEMiI4W— FreeSports 📺 (@FreeSports_TV) March 30, 2022

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    World Cup 2022 play-off fixtures and results: Portugal and Poland qualify, Australia or UAE to face South American side

    THE World Cup play-offs are in full swing as we find out who will be in Qatar.European Champions Italy will NOT be there after being stunned at home to North Macedonia.
    Cristiano Ronaldo has guided Portugal to the Qatar World Cup via the play-offsCredit: AFP
    European champions Italy are outCredit: AFP
    But Portugal are safely through to the World Cup after beating the North Macedonians.
    Wales are also one game away from Qatar, but they don’t yet know when their final will be.
    When are the World Cup qualifying play-offs?
    The World Cup qualifying play-offs are taking place between March 24 and March 29, 2022.
    Twelve teams will entered the play-offs – the ten runners-up from World Cup qualifying plus the best placed Nations League group winners to have not yet qualified automatically
    However, just THREE will advance to the World Cup.
    The draw for the play-offs was held on November 26 and saw the six best placed teams in World Cup qualifying handed home semi-final ties
    Garath Bale helped Wales to the verge of a first World Cup spot since 1958Credit: AFP
    World Cup play-off fixtures
    Path A
    Thursday, March 24

    Tuesday, March 29
    Final – Wales vs Scotland/Ukraine – DELAYED
    Path B
    Thursday, March 24

    Tuesday, March 29
    Final – Poland** 2-0 Sweden (7.45pm)
    **Russia have been suspended by Fifa and will be eliminated from the World Cup subject to an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport
    Path C
    Thursday, March 24

    Tuesday, March 29

    Final – Portugal 2-0 North Macedonia

    What happens next with the postponement of Scotland vs Ukraine?
    Discussions are currently being held to sort out a new date which everyone involved can agree on.
    The most likely time is expected to be within the window of the UEFA Nations League which takes place in June 2022.
    But Steve Clarke has floated the possibility that the match may not take place until September, given the progression of the conflict in Ukraine.
    He said: “Is that [a further delay] looking more and more likely given the situation on the ground?
    “If you’re honest about the situation, then, yes.
    “It’s difficult to see how we’ll be playing them in June. It’s not just about the fixture.
    “It’s the fact they need to get together, have a training camp and get players on the pitch with a proper period to prepare for such an important game.
    “Andriy Shevchenko, who I know from my time at Chelsea, spoke well about the situation and said they’d want to play.
    “But the way the situation is, I think they should get as much time as possible to try to make our game happen.
    “It’s a horrible situation and the quicker we know we’re going to play Ukraine at Hampden the better, because it’ll mean the war has stopped and we’re all trying to move forward.”
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    Are there any other World Cup qualifying play-offs?
    Yes. Asia has a World Cup play-off between the third placed teams in each of their two qualifying groups.
    This year’s play-off will see Australia take on the United Arab Emirates.
    The winner qualifies for the inter-confederation play-offs.
    Australia have been confirmed as one of the teams who will take place in the fixture, which will be held at a neutral venue that has yet to be decided.
    The inter-confederation play-offs will be held over a single leg in Qatar.
    The ties will take place in June and will be as follows:

    Australia or United Arab Emirates vs Peru
    North America fourth place vs Oceania winner

    Africa has also introduced its own World Cup play-offs which sees the ten group winners face off in two-legged ties.
    Away goals will count double for these games.
    Africa World Cup play-off fixtures

    DR Congo 1-1 Morocco
    Morocco 4-1 DR Congo

    Mali 0-1 Tunisia
    Tunisia 0-0 Mali

    Cameroon 0-1 Algeria
    Algeria 1-2 (aet) Cameroon (a)

    Egypt 1-0 Senegal
    Senegal 1-0 Egypt (3-1 pens)

    Ghana 0-0 Nigeria
    Nigeria 1-1 Ghana (a) More

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    When is the World Cup 2022 draw and who can England play? Date, UK start time, TV channel, live stream free, pots

    ENGLAND are through to Qatar and can look forward to the World Cup draw.Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions are set for Pot 1 alongside hosts Qatar and winners of the last World Cup, France.
    England could face Germany who currently rank 11th in the FIFA Coca Cola World rankings.Credit: Getty
    That means they will avoid the majority of football’s big boys.
    When is the draw?
    The big draw will be held on FRIDAY – April 1, 2022.
    It will take place from 4pm (UK time), live and direct from Doha.
    The draw will decide the group stages for the tournament which kick off on November 21, 2022.
    How does the draw work?
    The teams have been divided into four pots owing to their current Fifa ranking.
    Hosts Qatar will be in Pot 1 alongside the top seven sides which includes England.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    Who could England face and what are the pots?
    England will play one team each from Pot 2, Pot 3 and Pot 4.
    The only restrictions are that no more than two European teams can be drawn together and no more than one team each from any other continent can be in one group.
    Here’s how the pots could look.
    Pot 1

    Qatar (hosts)
    Belgium
    France
    Argentina
    Brazil
    England
    Spain
    Portugal

    Pot 2

    Netherlands
    Denmark
    Mexico
    Germany
    USA
    Switzerland
    Uruguay
    Croatia

    Pot 3

    Senegal
    Iran
    Japan
    Serbia
    Morocco
    Poland
    South Korea
    Tunisia or Canada

    Pot 4

    Canada or Tunisia
    Cameroon
    Ecuador
    Saudi Arabia
    Ghana
    Wales or Scotland or Ukraine
    Peru or Australia or United Arab Emirates
    Winner of intercontinental play-off 2

    How can I watch the World Cup 2022 draw?
    FIFA are live streaming the ceremony for free on their website, with the BBC also expected to provide coverage for viewers in the United Kingdom. More

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    Algeria 1 Cameroon 2 LIVE REACTION: Karl Toro Ekambi scores 125th-minute winner to send Indomitable Lions to World Cup

    CAMEROON left it late but their 2-1 win over Algeria in extra-time has booked them a place in December’s World Cup in Qatar. Karl Toko Ekambi scored the vital winner to hand the Indomitable Lions an away goals victory, with the tie finishing 2-2 on aggregate.

    Start time: 8.30pm BST
    TV/Live stream: Not televised/MOLA TV

    JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
    Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
    Get me on that flight
    Rigobert Song will be taking Cameroon to Qatar.
    In his first managerial role, he has brought the smiles back to the faces of the Cameroonian people.

    Ekambi whatever you want
    The Lyon midfielder caps off a great domestic season with a goal that will make him a national hero in Cameroon.
    After disappointing when hosting the Africa Cup of Nations earlier in the year, Cameroon have given their fans something to celebrate.
    They are going to Qatar.
    Song for Africa
    Rigobert Song cannot believe the emotional rollercoaster he has just been on in the last 120 seconds.
    They were out, his image tarnished, Algeria were progressing.
    Fast forward another 100 seconds and they are going to Qatar.
    What a result!
    FT (ET): Algeria 1-2 Cameroon
    Cameroon are through on away goals.
    Algeria hearts are broken.
    There are tears of upset and tears of joy.
    Algeria 1-2 Cameroon
    120+4. Unbelievable Jeff!
    Cameroon have equalised with the last kick of the game.
    Insane end to this game.
    Goal – Ekambi (Cameroon)
    Algeria 1-1 Cameroon
    120+2. Tempers are flaring up here.
    The referee had blown his whistle for a Cameroon free kick when the Algerian player booted the ball away.
    M’Bolhi gets to the ball punted into the penalty area.
    Algeria 1-1 Cameroon
    120. There is going to be four additional minutes.
    Do Cameroon have enough juice in the tank to try and get an equaliser.
    Algeria hoof the ball into Cameroon territory.
    Algeria 1-1 Cameroon
    119. The substitute was left completely unmarked at that corner.
    Touba has a simple task of heading the ball into the corner.
    Slimani tries to waste some time and gets a yellow card for his troubles.
    Goal – Touba (Algeria)
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    118. It looks like we are heading to another penalty shootout tonight.
    With only two minutes and added time remaining, the visitors camp out in their own half to prevent Algeria scoring.
    Corner to Algeria.
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    116. Algeria are surrounding the referee.
    As the ball comes in the Cameroon defender bundles into the back of the Algerian.
    A corner is given instead of the penalty they want.
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    114. Mahrez does well to hold the ball up and is fouled.
    The ball is played into the box and Bedrane has a free header.
    Onana saves again with his feet.
    Offside given against the Algeria player.
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon – Bennacer chance!
    112. The Algerian midfielder hits a shot on the half volley from some way out.
    He catches it perfectly and forces Onana into a good save.
    What a strike from that far out to test the Cameroon keeper.
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    110. Cameroon are looking nervous at the back now.
    Claims for handball are waved away.
    Corner to Algeria.
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    108. Of the two teams it seems the home side are more keen to try and get this game finished before penalties.
    Belaili comes off for Ghezzal.
    Amazingly, Belaili does not go to ground at all on the walk off.
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    106. Free kick is curled into the box.
    It seemed Onana completely missed it but the referee awards a corner.
    Fortunately for the Cameroon keeper, nothing comes of it.
    Kick-off: (ET) Algeria 0-1 Cameroon (agg 1-1)
    Algeria get the second period of extra time started.
    Can we find a winner in the next fifteen minutes?
    HT (ET): Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    The referee brings the first period of extra time to an end.
    Slimani tells the referee some home truths as they walk off the pitch.
    Managers start thinking about penalty takers now.
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon – Slimani chance
    104. The ball is swung in and Slimani wins the header and heads it down low.
    Onana gets down well and palms the ball away.
    It wrongfoots the oncoming player who cannot meet the rebound for Algeria.
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    103. Algeria come forward and win a free kick wide on the left.
    They are looking to find that elusive goal before half time.
    Slimani still thinks he got it.
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    100. The referee has disallowed the goal.
    He deems that Slimani handled the ball.
    Algeria are fuming with the decision.
    Algeria 1-1 Cameroon
    97. VAR is checking this one.
    Slimani may have caught it on his shoulder rather than his head.
    From the replay it didn’t seem like handball.
    VAR room has asked the referee to go to the monitor.
    Drama.
    Goal – Slimani (Algeria)
    Algeria 0-1 Cameroon
    96. Algeria seem in no hurry to get forward.
    They are still trying to patiently build play.
    Atal comes off for Touba.
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