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      Bungling Ecuador concede equaliser while playing with 10 men after LOSING substitute’s shirt for four minutes

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      ECUADOR conceded a late equaliser in their World Cup qualifier with Peru on Thursday night in the craziest of circumstances.Gustavo Alfaro’s men looked set to pick up a vital three points following Michael Estrada’s early strike in the Peruvian National Stadium.
      VIDEO de la TV peruana en el momento en que Diego Palacios no tenía camiseta para ingresar al cambio 😬🤦‍♂️Luego llegó el gol de Perú 😔⤵️ pic.twitter.com/S1CwDRqk6f— Edu Andino (@eduandinoe) February 2, 2022

      But a 69th-minute goal from Edison Flores – which came when the visitors were temporarily down to ten men – saw both sides share the spoils.
      The Ecuadorians’ brief disadvantage was the fault of substitute Diego Palacios, who was supposed to replace the injured Ayrton Preciado in the 65th minute.
      Palacios, 22, caused chaos on the sidelines by stunningly losing his SHIRT.
      The missing shirt caused pandemonium on the Ecuador bench as Palacios and team staff tried to find it.
      Eventually, a kitman had to go back to the dressing room to grab the top for Palacios – who was stood barechested for FOUR minutes.
      The Los Angeles FC full-back eventually made his way onto the pitch, but the damage had already been done.
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      Shocked fans were quick to comment on the hilarious scenes, with one saying: “My emotional stability has a first and last name: Diego Palacios.”
      Another said: “THAT’S WHY I LOVE YOU DIEGO PALACIOS.”
      And another said: “The player from Ecuador must be seriously reconsidering his line of work.”
      Ecuador gaffer Alfaro couldn’t help but lament the costly nature of the calamitous incident.
      In his post-match interview, he said: “There was a detail, because when Ayrton was injured, I wanted to put on Palacios, the shirt disappeared and that’s why we couldn’t make the change.
      Edison Flores rescued a point for Peru in their World Cup qualifier against Ecuador while the visitors where down to tenCredit: AP
      Ecuador were at a disadvantage for four minutes as substitute Diego Palacios lost his shirtCredit: Twitter
      A furious Palacios stood shortly for four minutesCredit: Twitter
      But the damage was already done by the time he came on to the pitchCredit: Getty
      “And at that moment when they bring the shirt, the referee had already set the ball in motion and we were missing a player, and that’s where the play came from.”
      Victory over the Peruvians would’ve sealed Ecuador a place at Qatar 2022.
      La Tri will look to seal qualification for their fourth World Cup on March 24 when they travel to Paraguay.
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      Brazil 4 vs Paraguay 0: LIVE REACTION: Rafinha, Coutinho, Antony and Rodrygo goals get Samba stars dancing

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      BRAZIL can use their World Cup qualifying clash with Paraguay tonight as a warm-up, considering they’ve already made it to Qatar 2022. Their opponents are pretty much out of the running to qualify, however, and will also be using the game as a chance to restore some national pride.

      Kick-off time: 12.30am
      TV channel: Premier Sports

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      FT: Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      With players to return from injury like Neymar, Firmino and Richarlison Brazil have to be one of the teams to watch in Qatar.
      It is not often that they don’t give a good showing in the finals but it is some time since the boys from Brazil lifted the World Cup.

      FT: Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      The score does fully reflect the performance.
      Brazil broke the deadlock after only one minute before VAR ruled it out.
      Ederson could have been sat playing Wordle in the six yard box most of the game.
      Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      90+4. Ball floated into the back post.
      Sanabria tries an overhead kick that narrowly misses.
      Now that would have been the goal of the night.
      Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      90+2. It is almost all over here.
      We have one more minute to be played.

      Brazil 4 Paraguay 0
      87. Rodrygo gets his first Brazil goal coming from the bench.
      Good build up play led to the ball being squared for a tap in.
      GGGGGGOOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLLL
      Brazil 3 Paraguay 0
      85. Antony takes the ball on the right-hand side of the box.
      He checks onto his left foot and curls it into the top corner.
      Keeper didn’t have a chance.
      GGGGGOOOOOOAAAAALLLLLLL
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      83. The visitors have looked read for the final whistle for about half an hour now.
      Dani Alves has a shot from outside the box with his left foot.
      The low-curling effort seems to be going into the bottom corner until the sprawling dive from Antony Silva sees his out-stretched hand tip the ball wide.
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      80. It is a chance to rest some players now.
      Managers all over the world breath sighs of relief as they see their players come off.
      Rafinha makes way.

      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      76. Although you could question the quality of their opponent, Brazil have played fast-paced, flowing, attacking football here tonight.
      They look like they would cause anyone a problem in Qatar.
      Could this be the year they end their 20 year wait to win the trophy?
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      74. Brazil knock the ball about at will.
      The ball breaks free for Bruno Guimaraes.
      His shot goes over the bar.
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      72. Antony is starting to see more of the ball down the left-hand side.
      He has come on for Vinicius Junior.
      Coutinho’s night is over.
      His work is done.
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      70. Sadly for Paraguay they have not managed to fashion anything in Brazil’s final third.
      They look out of place when getting into positions to attack.
      Long, hopeful balls are finding no one.

      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      67. Brazil could be a real force in the World Cup in Qatar if they can get players like Coutinho back to their best form.
      The Little Magician has been one of the stand out players today along with Rafinha and Vinicius Junior.
      Marquinhos distribution deserves a mention too.
      Absolute baller.
      Brazil 2 Paraguay 0
      62. What a strike!
      The defence back off him and Coutinho lets fly from about 25 yards.
      The ball goes in the top corner.
      GGGGGOOOOOOAAAAALLLLL
      Brazil 1 Paraguay 0
      60. Paraguay are trying to get the ball forward more.
      Brazil have been in complete control of this second half.
      They should be well ahead in this game already.
      Gabriel Jesus replaces Matheus Canha.
      Brazil 1 Paraguay 0
      56. Coutinho plays a delightful curling ball to the back post to find Lucas Paqueta.
      He takes it down on his chest but as the keeper lunges at him he dinks it over him and the crossbar.
      Should have done better after taking it on his chest.
      Brazil 1 Paraguay 0
      53. Matheus Cunha goes close with a header.
      Just going wide of the post.
      That would have been his first goal for his country.

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      Argentina 1-0 Colombia LIVE RESULT: Argentina hold on for win after Martinez goal makes it 29 unbeaten

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      ARGENTINA flexed their muscles in World Cup qualifying and eased past a lacklustre Columbia side.The result only adds to Columbia’s woes as the visitors fail to score for the seventh group game running.
      Meanwhile, it takes Lionel Scaloni’s side to an incredible 29 games unbeaten in all competitions.
      Lautaro Martinez’s goal separated the two sides at the break as Columbia sat back and allowed Argentina to control proceedings.
      A cross from the Marcos Acuna made it’s way through to Martinez, who slotted home into the bottom corner past Vargas.
      Classy performances by Giovani Lo Celso and Angel Di Maria in the midfield helped the Argentines dominate possession.
      And Acuna was tireless down the left hand flank.
      Columbia nearly scored a shock equaliser with the last kick of the first period but it was hoofed off the line by a last-gasp clearance.
      The second half only saw more control from the home side and the crowd started to enjoy the cruising nature of the performance.
      Columbia barely troubled Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez in the Argentina goal.
      Emi Buendia came on for his competitive debut, the cherry on the cake for the winning side.

      TV channel: Premier Sports 2
      Argentina starting XI: Emiliano Martinez, Montiel, Lisandro Martinez, Pezzella, Acuna, Di Maria, Ocampos, Gomez, Rodriguez, Lo Celso, Lautaro Martinez
      Columbia starting XI: Vargas, Mojica, Tesillo, Sanchez, Medina; Uribe, Barrios, Diaz, Rodriguez, Cuadrado, Borja

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      Goodnight from Cordoba
      In the end, Argentina were too classy for Columbia and their goal-drought.
      We hope you enjoyed tonight’s live blog.
      Goodnight from all of us at SunSport.
      Argentina go 29 games unbeaten

      Where they stand
      The victory puts Argentina a single point behind Brazil, however the Brazilians are currently 1-0 up against Paraguay late in their game.
      Meanwhile, Columbia fall way behind of the top four automatic qualifying places.
      They are now five points short of fourth placed Uruguay, providing they lose to Brazil.
      Peru sit in the fifth-place playoff spot with a game in-hand over tonight’s goalless visitors.
      Credit: FIFA
      It’s over – Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      Fireworks are let off over the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes as the players shake hands.
      That’s SEVEN World Cup qualifiers without a goal for Columbia.
      But Argentina are jubilant, that’s 29 consecutive games unbeaten for them!
      Credit: AP
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      90 +3. Dybala hits the frame of the goal from a dipping free-kick.
      Argentina counter a Columbia attack, Gonzalez is through on goal but he tries to slide in Dybala but it’s too soft.
      The seconds count down the to end of the game now.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      90 +1. Columbia very nearly score! Nearly an own goal as Gonzalez forces a save out of his own goalkeeper.
      But it’s given offside anyway.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      90. FOUR minutes of stoppage time added on.
      Columbia play the ball out from the back and then launch it forward.
      Will they create a goal scoring chance here in injury time?
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      87. Wonderful skill from Diaz. Columbia attack.
      Cuadrado drives into the box and is bundled over by Acuna but it’s alleged to be clean.
      This is better from Columbia late on.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      84. Tesillo heads over the bar from a corner.
      Good effort by him and it looked like it was going to drop into the far corner for a moment.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      83. Is this over or can the Columbians steal a goal here?
      Mojica wins a corner.
      Credit: AP
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      81. Free-kick in a dangerous position on the edge of the box for Argentina but it’s straight at the wall.
      Dybala sends the resulting corner in, attacked by Lucas Quarta but it’s mistimed.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      78. Ex-Norwich City star Emi Buendia makes his first competitive appearance for his nation.
      He replaces Lo Celso, who seems buoyed by his move to Villareal.
      OFF Lo Celso
      On Buendia
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      76. Falcao on for the visitors, searching for a goal to keep them in the hunt for the top four automatic qualification spots.
      OFF Borja
      ON Falcao
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      73. Great one-two by Acuna and Dybala in the Columbian penalty area but the shot from Acuna is blocked.
      Acuna is still getting well forward despite it being late in the game.
      Lo Celso smashes it JUST over the crossbar from distance after the resulting corner.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      68. Wouldn’t you know it… Argentina make a substitute and it’s Angel Di Maria going off!
      It’s been a pleasure to watch the 33-year-old PSG star this evening.
      OFF Di Maria
      OFF Lautaro Martinez
      ON Gonzalez
      ON Dybala
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      66. Angel Di Maria has been absolutely fantastic tonight.
      So much skill in the middle of the park, beats players, creates in the final third and has hit two long range efforts to force saves from Vargas.
      Credit: Getty
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      64. Great strike from long range from Di Maria again!
      Fantastic save low to his right from goalkeeper Vargas.
      That was flying right into the bottom corner.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      62. Columbia show some fight over on the left hand touchline but give away the ball from the resulting free-kick.
      There’s a bit more urgency about the Columbians in this second half so far.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      58. Argentina have bought on Meza to try and get a second.
      Ocampos off, thought he had a decent game. Saying that, the whole team have looked classy.
      OFF Ocampos
      ON Meza
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      57. Columbia make changes to try and get a break through.
      OFF Rodriguez
      OFF Uribe
      ON Suarez
      ON Cantillo
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      52. Ocampos loses the ball, sprints 20 yards to win it back but clumsily takes down the Columbian attacker.
      Borja is down again, in an unrelated incident to the Ocampos one.
      He’s holding his shoulder, injured in the first half it looks to be giving him trouble.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      50. Borja does well to win a corner for Columbia.
      Martinez comes out to claim.
      The Villa goalie only had to make one save in the first half.
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      47. Back underway here at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes.
      Drilled goalward by Acuna but it’s too close to Vargas who saves easily.
      Half time – Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      There’s the half time whistle and a dominating half of football from Argentina is over.
      Lautaro Martinez’s goal separates the two sides at the break.
      Columbia nearly scored a shock equalizer but it was cleared off the line by the Argentina defence.
      Credit: Reuters
      Argentina 1-0 Columbia
      44. Acuna is booked as he fouls Cuadrado.
      Diaz links up with Borja and Columbia nearly score!
      Then Diaz flicks it in towards goal but it’s cleared off the line!
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      Gareth Southgate reveals his music taste and hopes England can be top of the pops at Qatar World Cup this year

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE is desperate for England to be a smash hit at the World Cup later this year.The Three Lions reached the Euro 2020 final with Sweet Caroline providing the soundtrack to the tournament.
      Southgate has guided England to a World Cup semi-final and a Euros finalCredit: REUTERS
      Southgate is desperate for England to be a smash hit at the World CupCredit: ALAMY
      But England boss Southgate admits his own singing isn’t up to scratch after opening up on his musical taste.
      Southgate said: “I don’t get asked to do karaoke, although I have to say, I was in a restaurant a couple of months ago.
      “Sometimes people come up and ask for pictures…I saw a lady walking across and she said, ‘I hope you don’t mind, there is a wedding party downstairs, and we were wondering if you could come and sing Sweet Caroline.’
      “And I said, look that just won’t be happening tonight, so she wasn’t very happy with me, but I think the rest of the group got away with a near miss frankly.”
      Southgate’s personal choice is more middle of the road with his first single ‘You Can’t Hurry Love’ by Phil Collins and debut album ‘Tears for Fears ‘Songs from the Big Chair.’
      The 51-year-old will be in the hotseat where the Three Lions will be among the top seeds in April’s draw as they bid to end 56-years without a major trophy in Qatar.
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      Southgate said: “Winning matches helps. I’m very conscious that I really enjoyed my time playing for England and all of the managers I played with.
      “I inherited a team with the start of the togetherness and the young players coming through.
      “Roy Hodgson gave a lot of those guys their debuts, and when we took over nobody complained within the camp about the atmosphere in the camp.
      “But we have been able to build on that. What had started to happen was that we had lost a bit of belief in what might be possible.
      “Players were almost as worried about being the one to be at fault for a key goal or moment that might cost the team the result.
      “We’ve tried to affect that mindset a bit. That meant saying to them ‘you can’t do anything about the last 30-40 years, that’s not your fault – but what you’ve got is an opportunity to make a difference and be the first to break through a load of barriers’.
      “It was ‘Let’s see what we might go and achieve’. Having that challenge rather than the fear of what might go wrong is the approach we have tried to take.
      “Big matches are about performing under the most extreme pressure and intensity. You learn more about the players in semi-cup and final matches with their club.

      “Have people got the resilience to stand up in an England shirt and thrive on those big nights?”
      Southgate believes his players’ response over the past five years has given an emphatic answer.
      The emergence of the new crop of talented youngsters, including Phil Foden, Reece James, Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka has come ahead of the anticipated schedule, increasing the range and depth of quality at his disposal.
      Southgate was speaking at the announcement of his induction into the Legends of Football hall of fame in October, just weeks before setting off for Qatar.
      He added: “The World Cup will firstly be a brilliant challenge for us.
      “The team have got to a certain level and there is a lot more expectation and evidence that they can do well.
      “We’re focusing on the small details that can take us from a team that are really competitive to a team that can win.
      “Of course we know we’ve still got a step to take to beat the best of the rest consistently.

      “You’re balancing that with the fact that we’re still 10 months away from Qatar and form and fitness can fluctuate a lot over that period.
      “There are things we want to get right in March and in the summer which are important building blocks and we need to pace ourselves over the year to peak at the end of the season.”
      “But the team are improving, gaining more experience as a collective and individually. Form in the league is important and form in the big matches, even more important.”
      *Gareth Southgate will receive the 2022 Legends of Football Award at a glittering event for the music charity Nordoff Robbins in October lofootball.co.uk More

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      Brazil and Argentina haven’t won a World Cup in 20 years, and will have to be at their best to topple European giants

      by

      TWENTY years have now gone by since South America last won the World Cup.Brazil won title number five in Japan and South Korea in 2002. Ever since then, every World Cup campaign of theirs has come to an end as soon as they met a western European side in the knock out rounds.
      Brazil’s Cafu lifts the 2002 World Cup, the last time a South American country won itCredit: AP:Associated Press
      The lost to France in 2006, Holland in 2010, Germany – in astonishing style on home ground in 2014 and Belgium last time out three years ago.
      The story of Argentina is not radically different. True, they did get past Switzerland, Belgium and Holland on their way to the 2014 final, but all of their campaigns in the last two decades have ended in defeat to the Europeans – Germany in 2006, 10 and 14 and France last time.
      With four rounds of qualifiers still to go, both Brazil and Argentina have already booked their place in Qatar. They have breezed through the campaign.
      Brazil are unbeaten, and Argentina have not lost a match for two and a half years. Both can build towards Qatar with some confidence – not least because they are looking good defensively.
      Titles are so often won by tight defences. Brazil at the moment rarely even look likely to concede a goal, while Argentina are much improved in this department.
      The emergence of Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez has been important. He looks like Argentina’s first top class keeper for decades, and ex player and top pundit Diego Latorre named him as the country’s footballing personality of the year in his newspaper column.
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      And there is another reason for the South American giants to believe – last year’s Euros. The tournament was exciting and had its moments.
      But it did not have a truly great team. Perhaps the proof is that winners Italy are by no means certain of a place in the World Cup.
      The impression left was of a continent with considerable strength in depth, but without a genuinely outstanding contender for Qatar.
      On show in the Euros there were probably ten teams who, on a good day, might be capable of eliminating Brazil or Argentina.
      But flipped the other way round, there was no one at the tournament that the South Americans are not capable of beating.
      There is, though, an entirely new factor coming in to play in Qatar. This is a World Cup taking place in November and December, rather than the traditional June and July.
      This is a huge change – and whatever the problems about the way it has happened, it promises to be a change for the better.
      Argentina lifted the Copa America last summer and will be full of confidence going to QatarCredit: AFP
      In Emiliano Martinez Argentina finally have a top class No1Credit: AFP
      The big problem for all recent World Cups has been that of end of season burn out. There is no better example than Argentina in 2014. True, they reached the final.
      But to get that far they had to become a completely different team from the one that had qualified.
      Under former Leeds and Sheffield United midfielder Alejandro Sabella, Argentina had qualified with a bold 4-3-3, featuring Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain up front, and Angel Di Maria in the midfield trio. They conceded a few – but scored plenty more.
      Come the tournament Sabella realised that his players simply were not fit enough to play that way. Argentina tightened up.
      In four knock out games, three of which went to extra time, they scored just two goals. Di Maria broke down, Aguero was nowhere near fit, Messi rationed himself.
      In Qatar, though, there will be no end of season burn out. The planet’s best players will be in mid-season, and should be much closer to the peak of their powers.
      The Europeans should be better than anything they showed in last year’s Euros. South America is going to have to come up with something special to win its first World Cup in twenty years.
      With Italy struggling to qualify, Brazil and Argentina won’t fear any of the European giantsCredit: PA More

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      World Cup 2022 play-off draw LIVE REACTION: Scotland face Ukraine, Wales vs Austria plus potential for Portugal vs Italy

      by

      SCOTLAND, Wales, Portugal and Italy have discovered their fate for the World Cup play-offs.The Welsh will face Austria, while Scotland face a tricky home tie against Ukraine at Hampden Park.
      Both nations are in Path A and could therefore then face-off for a place in Qatar if they make it through the semi-finals.
      While Italy and Portugal have also been drawn in the same path, meaning at least one of them will miss out on the finals.
      Path A:

      Scotland vs Ukraine
      Wales vs Austria

      Path B:

      Russia vs Poland
      Sweden vs Czech Republic

      Path C:

      Italy vs North Macedonia
      Portugal vs Turkey

      Follow all the latest reaction below in our live blog…

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      THAT’s ALL FOR TONIGHT

      Wooooooow………

      We MIGHT not see Cristiano Ronaldo at the Qatar World Cup, possibly his last!

      Portugal might face European champions Italy in the play-off final with both being drawn in Path C.

      Luckily for Portugal, should they get past Turkey, they’ll be the home team for the final.

      A little bit closer to home, Scotland and Wales COULD battle it out for a spot in Qatar in Path A, but they have to get past Ukraine and Austria respectively.

      Goodnight!RON LAST TIME

      If Portugal fail to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo is unlikely to play in 2026.

      He will be 41-years-old by the time the next one comes around.

      NAIL-BITER

      Who’s your money on?

      The Euro 2016 winners Portugal, or the Euro 2020 winners Italy?

      Both, of course, have to beat Turkey and North Macedonia respectively to then face each other.

      PLAY-OFF FINAL HOSTS

      PATH A

      The winner of Wales vs Austria will host the World Cup play-off final against either Scotland or Ukraine.

      PATH B

      Either Russia or Poland will host the play-off final from Path B, welcoming either Sweden or the Czech Republic.

      PATH C

      And finally, Portugal or Turkey will host the winner of Italy and North Macedonia.

      Wales or Austria vs Scotland or UkraineRussia or Poland vs Sweden or Czech RepublicPortugal or Turkey vs Italy or North MacedoniaPATHWAYS CONFIRMED

      Wow……

      Three very, very tough paths to the Qatar World Cup.

      Path A:

      Scotland vs UkraineWales vs Austria

      Path B:

      Russia vs PolandSweden vs Czech Republic

      Path C:

      Italy vs North MacedoniaPortugal vs TurkeyPATH C

      Italy will welcome North Macedonia.

      And Portugal will play Turkey!PATH B

      Poland will take on Russia.

      And Sweden will host Euro 2020 quarter-finalists Czech Republic. PATH A

      We’re now into the unseeded teams who will play their semi-final away from home.

      Ukraine are drawn first and they will play Scotland!

      Austria are out of Pot 2 next and they will take on Wales.

      Path A looks interesting to say the least!PATH C

      Oh my……….

      PORTUGAL and ITALY have been drawn into Path C!

      Should they both win their semi-finals, they WILL face each other for a place at the Qatar World Cup.PATH B

      Russia and Sweden have been drawn into Path B.PATH A

      Scotland and Wales have been drawn into Path A, meaning they COULD face each other in the final for a place at the World Cup.HERE WE GO!

      THE DRAW IS ABOUT TO START!WORLD CUP SCHEDULE

      Whilst we wait for the official draw to get underway, here’s all the key dates you need to know for next year’s tournament.

      TARTAN ARMY

      Will Scotland reach their first World Cup in over two decades?

      WHICH TEAMS ARE INVOLVED IN THE WORLD CUP PLAYOFF DRAW?

      Here’s a reminder of who’s in today’s draw:

      SEEDED

      Portugal, Italy, Scotland, Russia, Sweden, Wales

      UNSEEDED

      Austria, North Macedonia, Turkey, Poland, Ukraine, Czech Republic

      Just THREE teams will book their place in Qatar.NOT LONG TO GO

      The draw is due to start at 4PM UK time.MIDFIELD MAESTROS

      Jorginho could face Portuguese powerhouse Joao Palhinha in their World Cup play-off decider.

      Despite Palhinha being the more defensive out of the two, he managed to chip in with two goals during qualifying.

      HERO TO ZERO

      Italy failed to qualify automatically for the World Cup after just winning Euro 2020.

      They saw off England at Wembley on penalties to re-announce themselves as one of Europe’s heavyweights.

      But it hasn’t quite gone to plan as they finished second in their qualifying group behind Switzerland.

      Chelsea’s Jorginho missed a crucial penalty in the last round of fixtures this month which would’ve booked their place in Qatar.

      Now, they have a real possibility of facing Portugal for a spot at the tournament.

      HOW DOES THE DRAW WORK?

      The play-off draw can be rather confusing, so here’s how it works:

      The last three European slots for the Fifa World Cup are allocated via a 12-team play-off systemTen runners-up from the group stage plus the next two best teams from the Uefa Nations League go into the hatThe six highest-ranked runners-up from the group stage are seeded in Pot 1 and are guaranteed to play their semi-final at homeThe remaining six teams are unseeded in Pot 2 and will be drawn against the seeded nations in Pot 1The one-legged semi-finals are separated into three ‘Paths’ featuring four teams, leading to one-legged finals between semi-final winnersA further draw will take place to decide which team plays at home in these finalsThe winners of the finals from the three ‘Paths’ will be the trio of additional European qualifiers for Qatar 2022HORROR DRAW

      Portugal and Italy COULD face each other if this simulated draw is right.

      SunSport’s simulation would see Portugal face minnows North Macedonia, and Italy would take on Austria.

      And if both get through the semis unscathed, they would then face each other in a blockbuster World Cup shootout.

      LAST DANCE

      After losing their last group game to Serbia, Portugal were dumped into the play-offs.

      Despite Cristiano Ronaldo netting six during qualifying, it wasn’t enough to carry his Euro 2016 winners to the Qatar World Cup.

      It may be Ronaldo’s last chance of World Cup glory.

      WE CAN DO IT

      Italy striker Domenico Berardi is confident that Italy can secure qualification from the World Cup play-off.

      The Euro 2020 winners find themselves in a battle for a spot in Qatar, but Berardi reckons they’ve got enough in their tank to see them through no matter who they face.

      Italy, along with Wales, Scotland and Portugal will find out their opponents in the next hour.

      Speaking on Italy’s chances, Berardi said: “We have to roll up our sleeves and give our all in the play-offs to go to Qatar.

      “We care a lot about the World Cup and I’m sure we will be able to qualify.”WE’LL EARN IT

      Wales legend Robert Earnshaw reckons his nation have nothing to fear going into the World Cup play-off.

      The Welsh find out who they face in the draw for the next stage of qualifying in just a few hours.

      But with Wales’ vast array of talent, Earnshaw is confident they can get through and clinch one of the three World Cup spots on offer.

      He said: “Whoever we play we have to be positive in our approach because we have some very good players.

      “It’s great we have the likes of Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale because they are great footballers.

      “The one thing that doesn’t get highlighted is the amount of pressure and weight of the nation on their shoulders always, but they deliver consistently.

      “Our approach has to be right with those great players. Going into the play-offs that’s where we can do well and qualify.”WHICH TEAMS ARE INVOLVED IN THE WORLD CUP PLAYOFF DRAW?

      The draw will include ten nations who finished as runners up in qualifying, as well as two Nations League group winners who missed out on a spot in their respective group.

      Just three sides will make it through the play-offs and play at the 2022 World Cup from the twelve who enter the play-off stage.

      SEEDED

      Portugal, Italy, Scotland, Russia, Sweden, Wales

      UNSEEDED

      Austria, North Macedonia, Turkey, Poland, Ukraine, Czech RepublicWHO CAN SCOTLAND AND WALES PLAY?

      Scotland and Wales can be drawn at home to any of the six unseeded teams in the semi-final, who they will play at home.

      In the final, they can be drawn home or away to the winner of any of the other five ties.

      The only teams who cannot meet each other in either the semi-final or final are Russia and Ukraine, who asked to be kept apart due to the conflict in Ukraine’s Donbass region.Load more entries… More

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      World Cup 2022 play-off draw LIVE: Stream FREE, UK start time, TV channel – Scotland, Portugal, Wales & Italy learn fate

      by

      SCOTLAND, Wales, Portugal and Italy will find out their fates today in the World Cup 2022 play-off draw.The next round of qualifying takes place after a draw in Zurich, Switzerland – with a two-round playoff incoming early next year.

      UK start time: 4pm GMT
      Live stream FREE: FIFA official website
      TV channel: No UK TV channel

      Stay up to date with all the latest below in our live blog…

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      TARTAN ARMY

      Will Scotland reach their first World Cup in over two decades?

      WHICH TEAMS ARE INVOLVED IN THE WORLD CUP PLAYOFF DRAW?

      Here’s a reminder of who’s in today’s draw:

      SEEDED

      Portugal, Italy, Scotland, Russia, Sweden, Wales

      UNSEEDED

      Austria, North Macedonia, Turkey, Poland, Ukraine, Czech Republic

      Just THREE teams will book their place in Qatar.NOT LONG TO GO

      The draw is due to start at 4PM UK time.MIDFIELD MAESTROS

      Jorginho could face Portuguese powerhouse Joao Palhinha in their World Cup play-off decider.

      Despite Palhinha being the more defensive out of the two, he managed to chip in with two goals during qualifying.

      HERO TO ZERO

      Italy failed to qualify automatically for the World Cup after just winning Euro 2020.

      They saw off England at Wembley on penalties to re-announce themselves as one of Europe’s heavyweights.

      But it hasn’t quite gone to plan as they finished second in their qualifying group behind Switzerland.

      Chelsea’s Jorginho missed a crucial penalty in the last round of fixtures this month which would’ve booked their place in Qatar.

      Now, they have a real possibility of facing Portugal for a spot at the tournament.

      HOW DOES THE DRAW WORK?

      The play-off draw can be rather confusing, so here’s how it works:

      The last three European slots for the Fifa World Cup are allocated via a 12-team play-off systemTen runners-up from the group stage plus the next two best teams from the Uefa Nations League go into the hatThe six highest-ranked runners-up from the group stage are seeded in Pot 1 and are guaranteed to play their semi-final at homeThe remaining six teams are unseeded in Pot 2 and will be drawn against the seeded nations in Pot 1The one-legged semi-finals are separated into three ‘Paths’ featuring four teams, leading to one-legged finals between semi-final winnersA further draw will take place to decide which team plays at home in these finalsThe winners of the finals from the three ‘Paths’ will be the trio of additional European qualifiers for Qatar 2022HORROR DRAW

      Portugal and Italy COULD face each other if this simulated draw is right.

      SunSport’s simulation would see Portugal face minnows North Macedonia, and Italy would take on Austria.

      And if both get through the semis unscathed, they would then face each other in a blockbuster World Cup shootout.

      LAST DANCE

      After losing their last group game to Serbia, Portugal were dumped into the play-offs.

      Despite Cristiano Ronaldo netting six during qualifying, it wasn’t enough to carry his Euro 2016 winners to the Qatar World Cup.

      It may be Ronaldo’s last chance of World Cup glory.

      WE CAN DO IT

      Italy striker Domenico Berardi is confident that Italy can secure qualification from the World Cup play-off.

      The Euro 2020 winners find themselves in a battle for a spot in Qatar, but Berardi reckons they’ve got enough in their tank to see them through no matter who they face.

      Italy, along with Wales, Scotland and Portugal will find out their opponents in the next hour.

      Speaking on Italy’s chances, Berardi said: “We have to roll up our sleeves and give our all in the play-offs to go to Qatar.

      “We care a lot about the World Cup and I’m sure we will be able to qualify.”WE’LL EARN IT

      Wales legend Robert Earnshaw reckons his nation have nothing to fear going into the World Cup play-off.

      The Welsh find out who they face in the draw for the next stage of qualifying in just a few hours.

      But with Wales’ vast array of talent, Earnshaw is confident they can get through and clinch one of the three World Cup spots on offer.

      He said: “Whoever we play we have to be positive in our approach because we have some very good players.

      “It’s great we have the likes of Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale because they are great footballers.

      “The one thing that doesn’t get highlighted is the amount of pressure and weight of the nation on their shoulders always, but they deliver consistently.

      “Our approach has to be right with those great players. Going into the play-offs that’s where we can do well and qualify.”WHICH TEAMS ARE INVOLVED IN THE WORLD CUP PLAYOFF DRAW?

      The draw will include ten nations who finished as runners up in qualifying, as well as two Nations League group winners who missed out on a spot in their respective group.

      Just three sides will make it through the play-offs and play at the 2022 World Cup from the twelve who enter the play-off stage.

      SEEDED

      Portugal, Italy, Scotland, Russia, Sweden, Wales

      UNSEEDED

      Austria, North Macedonia, Turkey, Poland, Ukraine, Czech RepublicWHO CAN SCOTLAND AND WALES PLAY?

      Scotland and Wales can be drawn at home to any of the six unseeded teams in the semi-final, who they will play at home.

      In the final, they can be drawn home or away to the winner of any of the other five ties.

      The only teams who cannot meet each other in either the semi-final or final are Russia and Ukraine, who asked to be kept apart due to the conflict in Ukraine’s Donbass region.ON THE MEND

      Portugal legend Tiago Mendes reckons Ukraine could be the surprise package in the World Cup play-off.

      Ukraine are one of the 12 nations alongside Portugal who are fighting for a place in this competition.

      Both countries will find out who stands in their way in the next round of qualifying today.

      But Mendes doesn’t put it past the Ukrainian’s to secure on of the coveted three spots available.

      He’s well aware of their capabilities as Portugal couldn’t beat them when they last faced each other.

      Mendes said: “We know that in football anything can happen.

      “But if I had to pick one I’d say Ukraine because they also have a lot of good players, they are very compact, and we suffered against them and couldn’t beat them in our two most recent games.”RON HAS TO COME

      The World Cup won’t be the same without Cristiano Ronaldo which is why Portugal have to qualify.

      That’s the view of German icon Lothar Matthaus who thinks the tournament won’t be as good without Ronaldo, or Germany’s rivals Italy.

      Both Portugal and Italy will find out who they will go up against in the World Cup play-off that takes place today.

      Matthaus said to Fifa: “A personality like Cristiano Ronaldo just has to be part of the FIFA World Cup. The same applies to Italy.”

      “I had a fantastic time at Inter, hence a part of my heart beats for the Azzurri.”When is World Cup play-off draw?

      The draw for the play-off stage will be held at Fifa HQ in Zurich, Switzerland.It will take place on Friday, November 26 – TODAY.Things get underway at 4pm UK time, which will be 5pm in Switzerland.To follow all the ties as they are drawn, join us here on SunSport where we will be running a live blog.ZOOM CALLS

      The World Cup play-off draw will be held on Zoom due to Covid-19 restrictions.

      The draw will be conducted by FIFA Director of Competitions Manolo Zubiria, and presented by Samantha Johnson and Adriano del Monte.

      After the draw, the bosses of the 12 nations involved will share their feelings to Johnson and Del Monte.

      GOOD AFTERNOON WORLD CUP FANS

      The draw for the World Cup European play-off is now just hours away.

      Twelve teams consisting of six seeded and unseeded nations will battle it out for the THREE remaining spots left at the Qatar tournament in 2022.

      England have already automatically qualified for the first-ever winter edition of the tournament.

      However, Wales and Scotland weren’t so lucky and will be on the edge of their seats to find out who they will face in the next stage of the two-round play-off.

      There could be some thrills in the draw as Cristiano Ronaldo’s seeded Portugal side may be pitted against Robert Lewandowski’s Poland team, setting up a potential epic duel between the two footballing greats.

      You can catch all the latest from the draw right here SunSport’s live blog.

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      Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Man Utd training in £250k Bentley followed by private security guards after Portugal woes

      by

      CRISTIANO RONALDO reported back to Manchester United training WITHOUT a spot at next year’s World Cup guaranteed. While many United stars returned to Carrington with a ticket booked for Qatar 2022, a glum looking Ronaldo arrived with his place at the tournament still in the balance.
      Ronaldo reporting for training with his security guards in towCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
      Ronaldo was behind the wheel of his plush BentleyCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
      He cruised into training behind the wheel of his £250,000 Bentley, followed by two burly security guards in a plush Range Rover.
      The 36-year-old will now turn his attention back to Manchester United, who also aren’t sitting very pretty at the moment.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side have won just two out of their last seven games, with pressure mounting on the Norwegian boss.
      It means he will have to quickly put his Portugal woes behind him as Solskjaer and Co prepare for Saturday’s trip to Claudio Ranieri’s Watford.
      The striker didn’t take being condemned to the World Cup play-offs by a last minute defeat to Serbia on Sunday very well.
      Ronaldo was almost in tears at the final whistle, before throwing an angry strop as he stormed off the pitch.

      It’s hardly been the fairytale start to the season Ronaldo would have been dreaming of after his emotional return to the club.
      But he looked like he meant business as he returned to club duty in his top-of-the-range Bentley Flying Spur.
      It’s a change of motor from the £160,000 Lamborghini he was driving as he was chased by adoring fans after arriving back at the club in September.
      He’s been spotted behind the wheel of the sleek Bentley before, and has a well-known love affair with fancy cars.
      Earlier this summer he was seen on a tour of Ferrari’s Maranello factory where it was reported he ordered a Ferrari Monza worth a cool £1.4million.
      Although that is just a drop in the ocean in comparison to the £8.5m he reportedly splashed out on a limited edition Bugatti Centodieci – one of just ten in the world.
      The superstar is believed to have 20-plus private car collection worth £17m, with Bugattis his pick of the bunch.

      ⚽ Read our Manchester United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford
      Cristiano Ronaldo slapped with parking ticket as Man Utd team head out for bonding lunch ahead of derby clash More