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    Italy vs North Macedonia: Live stream, TV channel, kick-off time and team news for World Cup play-off

    ITALY could be about to go from heroes to zeroes in the space of less than a year.The Azzurri won the European Championship against England at Wembley last July, but now face missing out on the World Cup.
    Jorginho missed penalties at home and away to group winners SwitzerlandCredit: Getty
    North Macedonia will look to upset the odds and qualify for their second successive major tournamentCredit: Getty
    A goalless draw against Northern Ireland in Belfast saw the Italians fail to make it to Qatar automatically, despite going through the entire qualifying campaign unbeaten.
    Switzerland were the beneficiaries of that result as they finished top of the group, condemning the Italians to a play-off at home to North Macedonia.
    The Balkan nation have come on leaps and bounds as a football power, qualifying for their first ever tournament when they reached Euro 2020.
    And the Italians will be well aware that the North Macedonians beat Germany away in qualifying, so they can’t expect this one to be a formality.
    The winners of this semi-final will visit Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal or Turkey in the World Cup play-off final.
    What time does Italy vs North Macedonia kick off?

    Italy take on North Macedonia on Thursday, March 24.
    The match kicks off at 7.45pm UK time – 8.45pm in Italy and North Macedonia.
    It takes place at the Stadio Renzo Barbera, Palermo.
    The sides last met in 2017 when an equaliser from Aleksandr Trajkovski saw North Macedonia earn a surprise 1-1 draw in World Cup 2018 qualifying in Turin. Italy would go on to miss out on the World Cup.

    What TV channel is Italy vs North Macedonia on and can I live stream it?

    Italy vs North Macedonia is live on Sky Sports Arena.
    Coverage commences at 7.40pm – five minutes before kick-off.
    To stream the game live, head to Sky Go or Now TV.

    Team news
    Brazil-born duo Luiz Felipe and Joao Pedro have been called up to the Italy squad for this play-off.
    However, there’s no emotional return for Mario Balotelli, who Roberto Mancini had recalled to his previous squad.
    Centre-back Alessio Romagnoli has also failed to make the cut.
    Italy are also without the star of the Euro 2020 final, Federico Chiesa, who missed out with a knee injury.
    Defender Leonardo Spinazzola has been out since the European Championship with a ruptured achilles tendon and will play no part in this one.
    .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 Sport.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);}
    Latest odds
    To win in 90 minutes
    Italy 1/5
    Draw 11/2
    North Macedonia 13/1
    To qualify
    Italy 1/16
    North Macedonia 15/2 More

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    Portugal vs Turkey: Live stream, TV channel, kick-off time and team news for World Cup play-off

    PORTUGAL have work to do if they are to book their place at the World Cup.Cristiano Ronaldo and co were expected to win their qualifying group comfortably, but came unstuck in their final match against Serbia.
    Cristiano Ronaldo will have to get through the play-off if he wants to reach what is likely to be his final World CupCredit: Getty
    Turkey will be looking to spring a surprise against PortugalCredit: PA
    A last minute header from Aleksandar Mitrovic in Lisbon saw the Serbs progress to Qatar and the Portuguese sent to the play-offs.
    Opponents Turkey finished second to Netherlands in their group but managed to pip Erling Haaland and Norway to the runners up spot and a play-off place.
    The winner of this tie will host Italy or North Macedonia in the play-off final.
    Ahead of the match, Portugal head coach Fernando Santos said: “This is one of the most important moments since I became Portugal coach.
    “We will be playing for Portugal, the stadium has been sold out for a month, we know the whole country is behind us.
    “The focus is total to win and get to the World Cup.”
    What time does Portugal vs Turkey kick off?

    Portugal take on Turkey on Thursday, March 24.
    The match kicks off at 7.45pm in the UK and Portugal – 10.45pm in Turkey.
    It takes place at the Estadio do Dragao, Porto.
    The sides last met in 2012, when Turkey picked up a shock 3-1 in a friendly in Lisbon.

    What TV channel is Portugal vs Turkey on and can I live stream it?

    Portugal vs Turkey is live on Sky Sports Premier League.
    Coverage commences at 7.40pm – five minutes before kick-off.
    To stream the game live, head to Sky Go or Now TV.

    Team news
    Portugal
    Man City’s Ruben Dias is Portugal’s only major absentee for Portugal.
    Sporting’s Goncalo Inacio has been called up in his place.
    Fernando Santos has also kept the faith with Rui Patricio despite an error against Serbia.
    Jose Sa doesn’t make the squad despite having an excellent season at Wolves so far.
    Portugal squad
    Goalkeepers: Anthony Lopes (Lyon), Diogo Costa (Porto), Rui Patrício (Roma)
    Defenders: Cédric Soares (Arsenal), João Cancelo (Manchester City), Diogo Dalot (Manchester United), Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting), José Fonte (Lille), Pepe (Porto), Nuno Mendes (PSG), Raphael Guerreiro (Borussia Dortmund)
    Midfielders: Danilo Pereira (PSG), Matheus Nunes (Sporting), William Carvalho (Real Betis), Rúben Neves (Wolves), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), João Moutinho (Wolves), Otávio Monteiro (Porto), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)
    Forwards: João Félix (Atlético Madrid), André Silva (RB Leipzig), Cristiano Ronaldo (Manchester United), Diogo Jota (Liverpool), Gonçalo Guedes (Valencia), Rafael Leão (AC Milan)
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    Latest odds
    To win in 90 minutes
    Portugal 1/3
    Draw 4/1
    Turkey 15/2
    To qualify for the play-off final
    Portugal 1/8
    Turkey 5/1
    *Odds from Betfair correct as of Sunday, March 20 More

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    World Cup 2022 play-offs fixtures: Scotland vs Ukraine date, Wales vs Austria, Portugal, Italy and Russia latest

    SCOTLAND will have to go the play-off route if they are to qualify for the World Cup.But their tie against Ukraine has been POSTPONED due to the Russian invasion of the Eastern European country.
    Cristiano Ronaldo will need to guide Portugal to the Qatar World Cup via the play-offsCredit: AFP
    Italy is another giant footballing nation who will have to qualify through the play-offs routeCredit: AFP
    FIFA have granted Ukraine’s request to push their previous scheduled date of March 24 further back to June.
    This has resulted in the play-off final against either Austria or Wales being delayed too.
    When are the World Cup qualifying play-offs?
    The World Cup qualifying play-offs will take place during the next international break, which will be held from March 24 to March 29, 2022.
    Twelve teams will enter the play-offs – the ten runners-up from World Cup qualifying plus the best placed Nations League group winners to have not yet qualified.
    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 secure a first World Cup qualifying spot since 1958Credit: AFP
    World Cup play-off fixtures
    The draw for the play-offs has now been made.
    In each path, the winners of each semi-final will take on the other winners for a place in the World Cup.
    As such, we could be looking at Scotland vs Wales and Italy vs Portugal for a place in the finals.
    Path A
    Thursday, March 24

    Scotland vs Ukraine (7.45pm)* – POSTPONED
    Wales vs Austria (7.45pm)

    *Ukraine have asked for their play-off in Scotland to be moved to June
    Tuesday, March 29
    Final – Wales/Austria vs Scotland/Ukraine – DELAYED
    Path B
    Thursday, March 24

    Russia** vs Poland (5pm)
    Sweden vs Czech Republic (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
    Tuesday, March 29
    Final – Russia/Poland vs Sweden/Czech Republic
    Path C
    Thursday, March 24

    Tuesday, March 29

    Final – Portugal/Turkey vs Italy/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.
    Former Scotland international Mark McGhee agrees with FIFA’s decision to postpone the play-off semi-final.
    The 64-year-old said: “I think it is the right decision, we have got to respect what is going on over there and how it affects their players.
    “Ukraine deserve equal opportunity, maybe even more so in the circumstances and at the moment, it would be such a big ask for their players to come and play a game at that level.
    “So I don’t think there is anything lost by it. Scotland fans obviously want to know what is happening but I think it is the right thing to do and I don’t think anyone at the Scottish FA will have a problem with that.”
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    Are there any other World Cup qualifying play-offs?
    Yes. 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:

    Asia fourth round winner vs South America fifth place
    North America fourth place vs Oceania winner

    Africa World Cup play-off fixtures

    DR Congo vs Morocco (3pm) – Friday, March 25
    Morocco vs DR Congo (8.30pm) – Tuesday, March 29

    Mali vs Tunisia (5pm) – Friday, March 25
    Tunisia vs Mali (8.30pm) – Tuesday, March 29

    Cameroon vs Algeria (5pm) – Friday, March 25
    Algeria vs Cameroon (8.30pm) – Tuesday, March 29

    Egypt vs Senegal (7.30pm) – Friday, March 25
    Senegal vs Egypt (6pm) – Tuesday, March 29

    Ghana vs Nigeria (7.30pm) – Friday, March 25
    Nigeria vs Ghana (6pm) – Tuesday, March 29 More

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    ‘It’s horrible’ – Gareth Southgate worried about rights for women and gay England fans at Qatar World Cup

    GARETH SOUTHGATE says it’s “horrible” that female and gay England fans fear travelling to the Qatar World Cup.The Three Lions boss said he and his team will try to put pressure on the Qatari authorities to make their country more welcoming.
    Southgate has spoken on issues facing fans who intend to travel to QatarCredit: Getty
    They will also address concerns about workers’ rights and human rights.
    Southgate said: “There are issues that potentially threaten our fans when they travel: The rights of women and the rights of the LGBTQ+ community in particular.
    “Sadly, through discussions that I’ve had, I don’t think some of those communities are going to go and that’s a great shame.
    “And it would be horrible to think some of our fans can’t go because they feel threatened or they’re worried about their safety.
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15px;}.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-16djrfc{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.css-1skzs3j{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:1;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;padding-top:2px;}.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);}Read More England.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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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;}TOUGH CHOICE .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;}Southgate explains decision to DROP Rashford, Sancho and Walker from England
    “There needs to be some clarity and some better communication that they are going to be safe, because they’re not feeling that.
    “We have a group of players who recognise the platform they have and want to make a difference where they can.
    “That’s obviously different in another country but we’ll do what we can when we think it’s appropriate and to the best of our capability.”
    Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham was criticised last week for claiming that migrant workers supported the World Cup – despite reports of up to 6,500 deaths as well as poor living and working conditions.
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    But Southgate rejected accusations from Amnesty International that the England set-up is “complacent” about the issues.
    He said: “I am aware of those issues regarding compensation for the families of workers who died.
    “I’m not sure that just wearing a T-shirt makes a difference. I don’t totally know what we can do.”
    The tournament kicks off in November. More

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    Phil Foden reveals he will buy new dog and give it special name if England go on to win World Cup this year

    PHIL FODEN says he will get a dog called ‘World Cup’ if England triumph in Qatar later this year – to go with the pooch he already has named ‘Carabao’.The Manchester City ace got himself a French bulldog soon after his boyhood club won the League Cup for a third straight year in March 2020.
    Foden plans to buy a dog and name it after the World Cup if England win the tournament later this yearCredit: Mark Pain / Premium Sports Image
    The Man City midfielder named his French bulldog after the Carabao Cup when the Etihad giants won it in 2020Credit: PA
    Asked if it was true the mutt had been christened after the energy drink who sponsor the competition, Foden said: “Yeah, it is.
    “After I won it, I got a dog just after the final, so I decided to call it that. It’s not having puppies though, no chance.”
    The Etihad favourite was part of the Three Lions squad who came so close to glory in the Euros last summer.
    Asked if he would consider calling another dog ‘World Cup’, he said: “If we get there and win it then yeah – definitely.”
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    Before then he is aiming to add the Champions League to a medal collection that already includes three Premier Leagues,an FA Cup and four Carabao Cups – at the tender age of 21.
    He said: “Obviously that’s the one we dream about, the one we want.
    “We’ve won the Premier League all these times and all the cups but it would be extra special if we could – but if not I still believe we’ve been so successful in the last few years.”
    Foden was stunned recently when City legend and former team-mate Sergio Aguero named him as his favourite current player.
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    All you need for Cheltenham Festival 2022

    He said: “When I saw it I couldn’t believe it. I was a City ballboy, growing up watching him play – for him to say that is special.”
    With Aguero long gone, the young midfielder has been pressed into action as an emergency forward this season and says it is all part of playing under Pep Guardiola.
    He said:“You never know what he’ll do, always mixing it up and changing positions.
    “He’s very crazy,obsessed with football, he pushes us every day. He always wants more – that’s the kind of person he is.” More

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    World Cup 2022 play-offs fixtures: Scotland vs Ukraine date, Wales vs Austria, Portugal, Italy, Russia latest

    SCOTLAND know they have to come through another play-off if they are to reach the World Cup.But their tie with Ukraine could be delayed due to the Russian invasion of the Eastern European country.
    Cristiano Ronaldo will have to take the play-off route if he is to play in the Qatar World CupCredit: Getty
    Italy join Portugal in the World Cup play-offsCredit: Pacemaker
    Scotland and Wales are in the play-offs as seeded teams, following a respective win and draw against Denmark and Belgium.
    When are the World Cup qualifying play-offs?
    The World Cup qualifying play-offs will take place during the next international break, which will be held from March 24 to March 29, 2022.
    Twelve teams will enter the play-offs – the ten runners-up from World Cup qualifying plus the best placed Nations League group winners to have not yet qualified.
    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
    Gareth Bale and Wales will feature in the World Cup play-offsCredit: PA
    World Cup play-off fixtures
    The draw for the play-offs has now been made.
    In each path, the winners of each semi-final will take on the other winners for a place in the World Cup.
    As such, we could be looking at Scotland vs Wales and Italy vs Portugal for a place in the finals.
    Path A
    Thursday, March 24

    Scotland vs Ukraine (7.45pm)*
    Wales vs Austria (7.45pm)

    *Ukraine have asked for their play-off in Scotland to be moved to June
    Tuesday, March 29
    Final – Wales/Austria vs Scotland/Ukraine
    Path B
    Thursday, March 24

    Russia** vs Poland (5pm)
    Sweden vs Czech Republic (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
    Tuesday, March 29
    Final – Russia/Poland vs Sweden/Czech Republic
    Path C
    Thursday, March 24

    Italy vs North Macedonia (7.45pm
    Portugal vs Turkey (7.45pm)

    Tuesday, March 29

    Final – Portugal/Turkey vs Italy/North Macedonia

    .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. The inter-confederation play-offs will take place under the usual two-legged format.
    This will see the winner of Oceania qualifying, fourth place in North American qualifying, fifth place in South American qualifying and the best third place in the two Asian qualifying groups drawn into two two-legged ties.
    The two winners of their ties will qualify for the World Cup.
    In African qualifying the ten group winners will advance to two-legged continental play-offs.
    The five winners of those African ties will then advance to Qatar.
    Africa World Cup play-off fixtures

    DR Congo vs Morocco (3pm) – Friday, March 25
    Morocco vs DR Congo (8.30pm) – Tuesday, March 29

    Mali vs Tunisia (5pm) – Friday, March 25
    Tunisia vs Mali (8.30pm) – Tuesday, March 29

    Cameroon vs Algeria (5pm) – Friday, March 25
    Algeria vs Cameroon (8.30pm) – Tuesday, March 29

    Egypt vs Senegal (7.30pm) – Friday, March 25
    Senegal vs Egypt (6pm) – Tuesday, March 29

    Ghana vs Nigeria (7.30pm) – Friday, March 25
    Nigeria vs Ghana (6pm) – Tuesday, March 29 More

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    England’s luxury five-star hotel for 2022 World Cup built by Qatar government accused of funding Al-Qaeda

    ENGLAND’S luxury five-star hotel for the 2022 World Cup was built by the Qatari government accused of funding Al-Qaeda terrorists. The Three Lions are planning to stay at the Tivoli Souq Al-Wakra hotel for the duration of this winter’s tournament.
    England are planning to stay at the Tivoli Souq Al-Wakra hotelCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    The build was paid for by the Qatari government who have alleged links to funding Al-QaedaCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    The hotel is a luxurious five-star resort built in 2015Credit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    But as reported by the Daily Mail, the hotel was put up using money from Qatar’s Private Engineering Office.
    And the report adds that the PEO was named as an alleged source of secret money laundering, giving hundreds of millions of pounds to jihadists in a High Court.
    The hotel was constructed in 2015 as a purpose-built venue for the World Cup.
    And documentation seen by the Mail suggests it was done by building company Generic Engineering Technologies.
    Further paperwork allegedly reveals the construction was a Qatari government contract.
    And GET project manager Nader Haddad lists PEO as the main client on his online CV.
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    The Mail add that another electrical engineering subcontractor, Arena Engineering Consultants, have also operated alongside PEO.
    In June 2021, a High Court lawsuit alleged the PEO, overseen by the Qatari government, of diverting money to Al-Qaeda through fake contracts in Syria.
    The claim accused the ‘high-ranking members of the Qatari ruling elite’ of providing funds to ‘actively support and facilitate’ Al-Qaeda-affiliated terrorists including the jihadist Nusra Front in the Syrian civil war.
    The allegations have been denied by the Qatari government and all the defendants, including former Prime Minister Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani.
    England’s stunning Souq Al-Wakra complex is based in the fishing village of Al Wakrah, ten miles south of the capital city Doha.
    The England squad could also make use of the private beachCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    An FA delegation inspected both the hotel and the stadium last month and endorsed Southgate’s choicesCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    An FA delegation visited the resort in January and Gareth Southgate helped choose it – as well as the Saoud bin Abdulrahman Stadium as their training ground – for logistical reasons.
    The £62-£109-per-night luxury hotel was also deliberately selected with a private beach to replicate England’s relaxed atmosphere they had back in 2018 in Russia, where they reached the semi-finals.
    Described as ‘an elegant seaside stay’, England stars and staff could also make use of the on-site spa, which costs £100 for a 60-minute session.
    The Souq Al-Wakra hotel also has meeting rooms where Southgate would be able to gather with his squad for pre-match briefings.
    England’s squad could also make use of the on-site spaCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    Southgate is hoping to replicate the calm environment England had in RussiaCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli More

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    Inside England’s five-star alcohol-free hotel in Qatar with private beach where they’ll set up camp for World Cup 2022

    GARETH SOUTHGATE has chosen a five-star hotel with a private beach for England’s 2022 Qatar World Cup camp.The Three Lions boss picked the the Souq Al-Wakra hotel, which is in the recently expanded fishing village of Al Wakrah 10 miles south of Doha.
    The hotel’s most luxury room can cost up to £109-per-nightCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    England will stay at the Souq Al-Wakra hotel, 10 miles south of DohaCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    The hotel offers stunning sceneryCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    The England squad could also make use of the private beachCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    England have also secured the Saoud bin Abdulrahman Stadium as their training ground for the tournament.
    According to the Daily Mail, an FA delegation has inspected both the hotel and the stadium last month and endorsed Southgate’s choices.
    Southgate’s decision was largely made based on logistics and transport links, with the hotel being a short drive away from eight out of the ten tournament stadiums.
    The £62-£109-per-night luxury hotel was also deliberately selected with a beach to replicate England’s relaxed atmosphere they had back in 2018 in Russia, where they reached the semi-finals.
    However, alcohol will not be available at the hotel. Not that they would need it.
    The Souq Al-Wakra is a dry hotel, although alcohol-free mocktails are available.
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    Described as ‘an elegant seaside stay’, England’s stars and staff could also make use of the on-site spa, which costs £100 for a 60-minute session.
    The Souq Al-Wakra hotel also has meeting rooms where Southgate would be able to gather with his team and staff ahead of games or in the evenings.
    Many of Southgate’s predecessors have been criticised for their choice of tournament bases.
    An FA delegation inspected both the hotel and the stadium last month and endorsed Southgate’s choicesCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    The hotel has meeting rooms where Southgate can meet with his squadCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    Southgate is hoping to replicate the calm environment England had in RussiaCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    The wives and families of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s 2006 World Cup squad caused quite the stir, running riot in Baden-Baden.
    Players complained of boredom under Fabio Capello in Rustenburg, South Africa.
    And Roy Hodgson’s 2014 Brazil World Cup training sessions were impeded by Rio’s awful traffic.
    The hotel is close to eight of ten World Cup stadium venuesCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    England’s squad could also make use of the on-site spaCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli

    The spa costs £100 for a 60-minute sessionCredit: Souq Al Wakra Hotel Tivoli More