After a difficult journey in the qualifications and despite losing in the decisive challenge against Wales, North Macedonia secured the play-offs thanks to their ranking in the Nations League, while the draw in Zurich determined Denmark as the first opponent towards the world dream, reports Telegrafi.
The North Macedonian national team will participate in the play-offs for the second time in a row to qualify for the World Cup. Although the team failed to secure one of the top two places in the qualifying group, after losing in the decisive match against Wales, they retained their chance thanks to their ranking in the Nations League, which secured them a place in the additional phase.
In Zurich, FIFA held the draw for the play-off tournaments, where 16 national teams were divided into four pots, to form four qualifying mini-tournaments. The winners of each tournament will participate in the next World Cup. North Macedonia received the draw from the fourth pot, with potential opponents such as Italy, Turkey, Ukraine and Denmark.
Fate decided that Macedonia’s opponent in the play-off semi-final will be Denmark. The match will take place on March 26th away. In case of victory in this match, the national team will advance to the final, which will be played on March 31st with the winner of the Czech Republic – Northern Ireland duel and will finally decide participation in the World Cup. /Telegraph/