By VICTOR OKOYE

Turkiye and Sweden secured FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification after playoff victories over Kosovo and Poland.

Turkiye defeated Kosovo 1-0 in Pristina to end a 24-year wait, qualifying for their first World Cup since 2002.

Kerem Akturkoglu scored the decisive goal in the 53rd minute, sealing victory in a tense contest before a packed home crowd.

Turkiye, ranked 25th globally, overcame years of qualifying disappointment under coach Vincenzo Montella with a balanced squad.

Kosovo, ranked 79th, saw their impressive run end just short of a historic first major tournament appearance.

Elsewhere, Sweden defeated Poland 3-2 to book their place, with Viktor Gyokeres scoring a late winner in a dramatic playoff final.

Anthony Elanga gave Sweden an early lead before Nicola Zalewski equalised, while Gustaf Lagerbielke restored the hosts’ advantage before halftime.

Karol Swiderski levelled again after the break, but Gyokeres struck late to seal victory for Sweden.

The result sends Sweden into Group F alongside the Netherlands, Japan and Tunisia at the 2026 World Cup, their first appearance since 2018. (NAN)