Italy in Danger?! Ireland’s Cinderella Run | 2026 World Cup Playoff Tournament Preview

James Horncastle and Rory Smith join Rog to break down the high-stakes 2026 World Cup playoffs, where the final spots at the tournament are on the line.

From Italy’s shocking position in the playoffs to Ireland’s Cinderella run, they dive into every path and every contender across Europe and beyond. How did Italy get here—and how big of a disaster would it be if they miss out again? Can Wales or Northern Ireland keep their World Cup dreams alive? Are Türkiye and Denmark true favorites? And which underdog could shock the world? Plus: predictions for every playoff path, a look at the intercontinental matchups, and the long-shot teams still dreaming of 2026.

Presented by Christopher Ward.

To celebrate our partnership with Men in Blazers and the drama of the World Cup playoffs, Christopher Ward is giving one lucky soccer fan the chance to win any Trident watch of their choice.
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⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 - Italy, their own worst enemy
07:25 - Italy’s “structural” problem
10:52 - Northern Ireland’s World Cup chances
14:20 - Wales World Cup Dream
16:22 - Path A predictions
19:13 - Path B preview - Sweden favorites?
21:53 - Eyes on Ukraine
23:01 - Path C preview - Turkey’s chances
24:45 - Kosovo or Slovakia?
27:04 - Path D preview - Ireland’s Cinderella run
28:44 - Denmark favorites?
31:00 - Path D predictions
31:40 - New Caledonia’s 1% Chance
34:15 - Who emerges from Intercontinental play?
36:23 - Bolivia vs. Suriname
38:55 - Who do YOU want to see qualify?

ürkiye