With the first half of the World Cup Qualification 30 campaign now in the books, attention turns to the decisive second leg. The halfway point provided a clearer sense of who’s in contention, but no team has secured passage yet. With five rounds to go, and 8 total matches per team, the coming fixtures will be about holding nerve, maintaining momentum, and capitalizing on every opportunity. For the few teams already lagging behind, time is short but the path to redemption remains open.
Let’s take a look at where things stand going into Round 6:

 Group A

Positions: 1^st - Portugal (10 points), 2^nd - Sweden (7 points), 3^rd - Serbia (5 points), 4^th - Germany (3 points), 5^th - Greece (3 points)

Portugal continues to impress with a perfect defensive record and a commanding 3-0 win over Greece in Round 5. Sweden dropped points against Serbia but still sits second. Serbia’s 4-1 thrashing of Germany breathed life back into their campaign, and they now meet Greece in a must-win. Germany, also on three points, faces an uphill climb. The group remains wide open behind Portugal.

 Group B

Positions: 1^st - Hungary (9 points), 2^nd - Netherlands (9 points), 3^rd - England (6 points), 4^th - Norway (6 points), 5^th - Uruguay (0 points)

Hungary and the Netherlands are tied on points at the top, and Round 6 sees them both face tricky opponents. England hosts the Netherlands in a clash that could eliminate one from serious contention, while Hungary travels to face last-placed Uruguay, who are desperate to avoid a fifth straight defeat. Norway sits level with England on six points and will be watching closely.

 Group C

Positions: 1^st - Brazil (10 points), 2^nd - Argentina (7 points), 3^rd - Bangladesh (5 points), 4^th - Iceland (3 points), 5^th - Turkey (3 points)

Brazil's 2-0 victory over Argentina established them as Group C frontrunners, unbeaten with 10 points. Argentina remains second despite the loss. Iceland revived their hopes with a convincing win over Bangladesh, while Turkey continues to struggle. Round 6 sees Bangladesh host Turkey in a battle for survival, and Argentina must avoid further slip-ups against Iceland.

 Group D

Positions: 1^st - Austria (9 points), 2^nd - Russia (7 points), 3^rd - Chile (7 points), 4^th - China (6 points), 5^th - Mexico (0 points)

Austria stayed top despite a Round 5 loss to Russia, while Chile continues to rise, now level on points with the Russians. China’s loss to Chile knocked them just outside the top two. Mexico, still winless, has one last chance to stay alive. A huge clash between Austria and Chile headlines Round 6, while China faces bottom-side Mexico in a game they can’t afford to lose.

 Group E

Positions: 1^st - Belgium (9 points), 2^nd - South Korea (7 points), 3^rd - Spain (6 points), 4^th - Czech republic (4 points), 5^th - United States of America (3 points)

Belgium bounced back with a key win over Spain to retake the group lead. South Korea's slip-up against the USA keeps things close at the top, with all three—Belgium, South Korea, and Spain—separated by just three points. The USA is still in the fight after their first win, while the Czech Republic will aim to build on theirs. Round 6 brings Belgium vs. USA and a key clash between Spain and the Czechs.

 Group F

Positions: 1^st - South Africa (7 points), 2^nd - Colombia (7 points), 3^rd - Slovakia (6 points), 4^th - Latvia (4 points), 5^th - Denmark (4 points)

South Africa and Colombia remain tied at the top after a scoreless draw in Round 5. Slovakia, just one point behind, meets Colombia in Round 6 in a massive clash. Denmark has shown defensive improvement since changing managers, while Latvia’s early promise has faded. South Africa will look to reignite their attack against Denmark.

 Group G

Positions: 1^st - Romania (7 points), 2^nd - Thailand (5 points), 3^rd - Scotland (3 points), 4^th - New Zealand (1 point)

Romania leads the group with seven points and faces second-place Thailand in a potential group-defining Round 6 showdown. Scotland and New Zealand, both eager to stay in touch, square off in the other match. All four teams are still alive, but the pressure is mounting.

 Group H

Positions: 1^st - Japan (8 points), 2^nd - Bolivia (8 points), 3^rd - Italy (4 points), 4^th - Venezuela (3 points), 5^th - Lithuania (2 points)

Japan and Bolivia continue their unbeaten campaigns, with Japan edging ahead on goal difference. Italy's win over Lithuania keeps them in the hunt, and Venezuela’s fate hangs in the balance. Round 6 will be crucial: Italy faces Bolivia, while Lithuania and Venezuela fight to keep hope alive.

 Group I

Positions: 1^st - Poland (10 points), 2^nd - France (7 points), 3^rd - Bosnia and Herzegovina (6 points), 4^th - Albania (6 points), 5^th - Estonia (0 points)

Poland leads with 10 points but faces a huge test against Bosnia and Herzegovina, who thrashed Estonia in Round 5. Albania’s win over France tightened the race, leaving the top four separated by just four points. With five rounds to go, even Estonia could still play spoiler.

 Group J

Positions: 1^st - Bulgaria (7 points), 2^nd - India (6 points), 3^rd - Switzerland (6 points), 4^th - Israel (5 points), 5^th - Malta (4 points)

Bulgaria’s win over Switzerland lifted them to the top of a remarkably tight group. All five teams are separated by just three points. India takes on Israel in a crucial Round 6 clash, and Malta—fresh from a surprise win—can shake things up again against Bulgaria.

 Group K

Positions: 1^st - Australia (10 points), 2^nd - Ireland (6 points), 3^rd - Slovenia (6 points), 4^th - Moldova (4 points), 5^th - Algeria (3 points)

Australia remains unbeaten and leads the group, but Ireland and Slovenia are both within reach. Moldova’s drop in form has hurt their chances, and Algeria remains bottom despite a recent win. Round 6 sees Ireland attempt to close the gap on Australia, while Algeria hosts Moldova in a must-win for both.

 Group L

Positions: 1^st - Peru (8 points), 2^nd - Croatia (8 points), 3^rd - Rep. of Montenegro (7 points), 4^th - Canada (4 points), 5^th - Finland (0 points)

Peru and Croatia are tied at the top and remain unbeaten, but Montenegro is right behind. Canada’s high-scoring start has given way to inconsistency, while Finland still seeks its first point. Round 6 could shape the table: Peru hosts Canada, and Montenegro faces Croatia in a pivotal matchup.

The sixth round marks the turning point. Every team now knows what’s required of them in the second half, and for many, each match from this point on will feel like a final. Whether you’re sitting pretty at the top or scrambling to stay in the race, the margin for error has vanished. Expect intensity, calculated risk, and relentless drive as teams resume their push for World Cup 30.

The U21 World Cup qualifiers move into their second half with the sixth round, where every point carries greater weight. The first five matchdays have already produced surprise leaders, faltering favourites, and a few groups that remain too close to call. With only eight games in total for most teams, the margin for recovery is shrinking fast.
Here’s how each group is shaping up as the qualification race enters its decisive phase:

 Group A

Positions: 1^st - Slovakia (12 points), 2^nd - Latvia (9 points), 3^rd - Netherlands (6 points), 4^th - Malta (3 points), 5^th - New Zealand (0 points)

Slovakia hit the midpoint perfect (12/12) after edging the Netherlands away and now visit-free Latvia head to New Zealand, while the Dutch look to reset in Malta. With three to play for most, Slovakia can tighten their grip, Latvia aim to keep pace, and the Netherlands need points to stay within striking distance.

 Group B

Positions: 1^st - Hungary (10 points), 2^nd - Romania (10 points), 3^rd - Bosnia and Herzegovina (6 points), 4^th - Algeria (3 points), 5^th - Uruguay (0 points)

Hungary and Romania are level on ten points and already clear of the pack. Bosnia host Romania in the round’s key test for the chasers, while Hungary welcome Algeria with a chance to protect (or build) goal difference. Uruguay’s window is narrowing after four straight defeats.

 Group C

Positions: 1^st - Serbia (10 points), 2^nd - Moldova (9 points), 3^rd - Portugal (7 points), 4^th - Colombia (3 points), 5^th - Canada (0 points)

Serbia top the table on ten with five clean sheets, but Moldova (9) and Portugal (7) remain in range. Portugal–Moldova is the headline fixture for second-half positioning; Canada–Colombia offers the visitors a lifeline if they’re to rejoin the race.

 Group D

Positions: 1^st - South Korea (10 points), 2^nd - Australia (8 points), 3^rd - Estonia (4 points), 4^th - Finland (4 points), 5^th - Venezuela (1 point)

South Korea (10) lead Australia (8) with both still unbeaten in open play. Estonia–Australia reprises a tricky matchup for the Aussies, while Korea face a Finland side fresh from their first win. The middle pack remains tight; one result could swing second place.

 Group E

Positions: 1^st - Peru (9 points), 2^nd - Bulgaria (4 points), 3^rd - China (3 points), 4^th - Bangladesh (1 point)

Peru return perfect (9/9) and visit Bangladesh, who are chasing their first win. China meet Bulgaria in a direct contest for second at the halfway mark of this shorter group; small margins will loom large with only three rounds left after this.

 Group F

Positions: 1^st - Croatia (12 points), 2^nd - Turkey (7 points), 3^rd - Lithuania (4 points), 4^th - Thailand (3 points), 5^th - South Africa (2 points)

Croatia have dominated the first half (12/12, +11) and rest until Turkey–Lithuania and South Africa–Thailand play out. Turkey can solidify second with a home win, while the other tie is pivotal for keeping third place hopes alive.

 Group G

Positions: 1^st - Iceland (12 points), 2^nd - Norway (9 points), 3^rd - United States of America (6 points), 4^th - Germany (1 point), 5^th - Bolivia (1 point)

celand remain flawless (12) and travel to a revived USA, who have climbed to six points; Norway (9) go to Germany seeking insurance on second place. With two clear tiers forming, any slip from the Nordic pair would reopen the race.

 Group H

Positions: 1^st - Switzerland (9 points), 2^nd - Denmark (9 points), 3^rd - India (6 points), 4^th - Chile (6 points), 5^th - Israel (0 points)

A three-way lead has become a two-way tie at the top: Switzerland and Denmark on nine, India and Chile on six. Chile–Switzerland tests the Swiss away form, while Israel–India gives India a chance to stay tucked in behind the leaders.

 Group I

Positions: 1^st - Brazil (12 points), 2^nd - Albania (9 points), 3^rd - Russia (4 points), 4^th - Ireland (4 points), 5^th - Scotland (0 points)

Brazil are spotless (12/12, 11–0) and host Ireland, who shared points with Russia last time out. Scotland face Albania in a must-get result for the Scots, while Albania aim to keep their cushion in second before the run-in.

 Group J

Positions: 1^st - Austria (12 points), 2^nd - England (6 points), 3^rd - France (4 points), 4^th - Italy (4 points), 5^th - Rep. of Montenegro (3 points)

Austria’s perfect first half (12) sets the tone; they host France in a rematch of Round 1. Montenegro–Italy is a reset game for both after volatile starts. England, idle, will watch closely as the picture behind Austria reshuffles.

 Group K

Positions: 1^st - Slovenia (10 points), 2^nd - Poland (6 points), 3^rd - Czech republic (6 points), 4^th - Belgium (4 points), 5^th - Spain (3 points)

Slovenia (10) hold serve after beating Poland (6); the leaders now face a lively Czech Republic (6) in Ljubljana, while Poland host Spain needing points to protect second. Belgium, stuck on four, are vulnerable to the Czech surge.

 Group L

Positions: 1^st - Argentina (10 points), 2^nd - Greece (7 points), 3^rd - Japan (6 points), 4^th - Sweden (3 points), 5^th - Mexico (3 points)

Argentina lead on ten and visit Greece (7) in a direct contest for the summit. Japan (6) go to Mexico seeking back-to-back wins to strengthen their case for qualification, while Sweden need a response to stay in touch.

With the second half underway, standings are starting to harden and head-to-heads matter more than ever. The next two rounds will separate firm contenders from hopeful chasers — and set the stage for the decisive run-in.

The U19 World Cup Qualification enters its second half, with Round 6 marking a crucial turning point. The margins are getting finer: some leaders are building comfortable cushions, while others still face tense multi-team battles for qualification. Every slip from here can prove decisive, with just four matchdays remaining.
Here’s where the groups stand going into Round 6:

 Group A

Positions: 1^st - Bulgaria (8 points), 2^nd - Ireland (7 points), 3^rd - Austria (7 points), 4^th - Canada (4 points), 5^th - Bangladesh (1 point)

Bulgaria’s unbeaten run has them top on eight points, but Ireland and Austria are just a point behind and both very much in contention. Canada’s four points keep them in touch, while Bangladesh remain at the foot of the table. This week, Austria host leaders Bulgaria in a direct battle that could shuffle the standings, while Ireland look to keep pace against struggling Bangladesh.

 Group B

Positions: 1^st - Brazil (10 points), 2^nd - England (7 points), 3^rd - New Zealand (6 points), 4^th - Estonia (6 points), 5^th - Venezuela (0 points)

Brazil sit firmly in charge with ten points from four games, showing both goals and defensive resilience. England are second on seven but face a tough test against New Zealand, who are desperate to revive their campaign. Estonia are also on six and still in the race, while Venezuela remain winless. Brazil meet Venezuela in what looks like a mismatch, while New Zealand–England is the round’s most important clash.

 Group C

Positions: 1^st - Norway (12 points), 2^nd - Switzerland (9 points), 3^rd - Finland (4 points), 4^th - Spain (4 points), 5^th - Australia (0 points)

Norway are perfect with twelve points from four games and a healthy goal difference, looking untouchable at the top. Switzerland follow on nine and already have a cushion in second, while Finland and Spain sit level on four in the race to catch them. Australia are still without a point. The upcoming Finland–Spain meeting is vital for both, while Norway are expected to continue their run against winless Australia.

 Group D

Positions: 1^st - France (9 points), 2^nd - Denmark (8 points), 3^rd - Sweden (7 points), 4^th - Croatia (4 points), 5^th - India (0 points)

France, Denmark, and Sweden are separated by just two points at the top, with nine, eight, and seven respectively — setting up a fierce three-way battle. Croatia’s four points leave them needing a surge in the second half, while India remain pointless. This round, Denmark should consolidate against India, while France–Sweden is a true top-of-the-table clash that could reshape the group hierarchy.

 Group E

Positions: 1^st - Argentina (9 points), 2^nd - Czech republic (7 points), 3^rd - Peru (5 points), 4^th - Thailand (5 points), 5^th - Russia (1 point)

Argentina remain on top with nine points, but the Czech Republic are only two behind after handing them their first defeat. Peru and Thailand are level on five, keeping the group wide open, while Russia are bottom with a single point. Round 6 brings a key meeting between Peru and Thailand, while the Czech Republic face Russia looking to stay close to Argentina.

 Group F

Positions: 1^st - Hungary (12 points), 2^nd - Bosnia and Herzegovina (7 points), 3^rd - Malta (6 points), 4^th - Germany (4 points), 5^th - Slovakia (0 points)

Hungary are the runaway leaders with twelve points and a massive +20 goal difference, all but securing top spot already. Bosnia and Herzegovina are second on seven, chased by Malta on six. Germany, on four, are still alive in the battle for second, while Slovakia’s campaign is already effectively over. This week, Bosnia host Hungary in a massive test, while Germany face Malta in a direct duel that could decide the shape of the chasing pack.

 Group G

Positions: 1^st - Bolivia (12 points), 2^nd - Portugal (7 points), 3^rd - Algeria (5 points), 4^th - Albania (4 points), 5^th - South Korea (0 points)

Bolivia are perfect on 12 points and can take a major step toward sealing top spot when they visit second-placed Portugal (7). With Algeria (5) idle, Albania (4) have a chance to jump back into the mix away to South Korea (0). Portugal–Bolivia headlines the round: a home win compresses the race; another Bolivian statement could all but settle the leadership narrative.

 Group H

Positions: 1^st - Italy (7 points), 2^nd - Latvia (6 points), 3^rd - Scotland (6 points), 4^th - Rep. of Montenegro (6 points), 5^th - Japan (4 points)

Four teams are clustered within a point of each other behind leaders Italy (7): Latvia, Scotland, and Montenegro all sit on six, with Japan on four after five tight outings. Latvia host Japan aiming to consolidate after that 9–1 surge, while Montenegro meet Scotland in a direct duel with big top-two implications. Italy rest this week, so the chasing pack can reshape the table before the run-in.

 Group I

Positions: 1^st - Romania (10 points), 2^nd - Netherlands (7 points), 3^rd - Iceland (6 points), 4^th - Chile (6 points), 5^th - South Africa (0 points)

Romania (10) remain unbeaten and welcome the Netherlands (7) in a top-of-the-table fixture that could define the group’s second half. Iceland and Chile are tied on six, but Chile face bottom side South Africa (0) and will expect to stay in touch. If the Dutch spring an upset in Bucharest, we could see a three-way race emerge.

 Group J

Positions: 1^st - Moldova (9 points), 2^nd - Turkey (9 points), 3^rd - Serbia (6 points), 4^th - Israel (6 points), 5^th - China (0 points)

It’s tight at the summit: Moldova and Turkey are level on nine points, with Serbia and Israel close behind on six. Round 6 offers clarity — Serbia host Turkey in a heavyweight meeting, while Moldova travel to China (0) seeking a routine win. If Serbia hold serve and Moldova avoid a slip, we could have three teams locked within a point heading into Round 7.

 Group K

Positions: 1^st - Slovenia (7 points), 2^nd - Lithuania (4 points), 3^rd - Greece (3 points), 4^th - Mexico (1 point)

After the short pause in the smallest group, the second half begins now. Slovenia lead on seven points and meet Mexico (1), while Greece (3) host Lithuania (4) in a direct battle for second. Slovenia can edge toward qualification with a steady result; the Athens tie feels pivotal for the chasing order.

 Group L

Positions: 1^st - United States of America (10 points), 2^nd - Poland (8 points), 3^rd - Belgium (7 points), 4^th - Uruguay (3 points), 5^th - Colombia (0 points)

The USA (10) have set the pace, with Poland (8) and Belgium (7) in close pursuit. This round pairs Poland with the leaders in a marquee rematch, while Belgium face Uruguay (3) needing full points to keep pressure on the top two. A Polish win would blow the group wide open; if the USA avoid defeat, they’ll carry a strong cushion into the final three matchdays.

Round 6 flips the calendar and the pressure: from here, margins shrink and every head-to-head weighs heavier. After this week’s reshuffle, we’ll have a clearer view of who’s controlling their path and who needs a late surge before the final sprint to Round 10.

Second Half Begins

With five matchdays behind us, the 30th U17 World Cup qualification cycle now enters its decisive second half. For some teams, early momentum has created a comfortable cushion, while others are in urgent need of points to keep their dreams alive. With each team facing every opponent twice, the reverse fixtures offer a chance to settle scores, overturn results, and spark unexpected runs. Nothing is final yet—and everything is still to play for.

Now, let’s take a look at each group ahead of Round 6.

 Group A

Positions: 1^st - Moldova (8 points), 2^nd - Israel (7 points), 3^rd - New Zealand (5 points), 4^th - Bulgaria (3 points), 5^th - Spain (2 points)

This group continues to live up to its unpredictable nature. Moldova lead the way, unbeaten after five, but it’s New Zealand who now sit just a point behind following back-to-back wins. Spain, finally off the mark, could still mount a charge if they can repeat their win over Bulgaria. Israel vs. Moldova headlines Round 6, with both teams in position to claim top spot. Nothing is settled here.

 Group B

Positions: 1^st - Thailand (10 points), 2^nd - Switzerland (9 points), 3^rd - Austria (5 points), 4^th - Colombia (2 points), 5^th - Finland (1 point)

Thailand's high-pressing style has them at the top with 10 points, but Switzerland are right on their heels. Austria must win the return match against Finland to stay in realistic contention, while Colombia’s clash with Thailand is a must-win. Every team has shown moments of strength, and with the return legs starting now, momentum shifts are inevitable.

 Group C

Positions: 1^st - England (12 points), 2^nd - Norway (9 points), 3^rd - Rep. of Montenegro (6 points), 4^th - Slovakia (1 point), 5^th - Greece (1 point)

England's perfect record is on the line against Montenegro, a team fighting to claw into the top two. Norway will expect to take points off Greece again and keep pace. Slovakia need to show urgency against England in the next round or risk early elimination. The battle for second place is likely to heat up here.

 Group D

Positions: 1^st - Croatia (9 points), 2^nd - Mexico (6 points), 3^rd - Turkey (6 points), 4^th - Argentina (6 points), 5^th - Estonia (3 points)

Three teams—Mexico, Argentina, and Croatia—are tied on 9 points, and Estonia aren't far off. Mexico vs. Turkey looks straightforward on paper, but Turkey are desperate. Croatia vs. Argentina is a Round 6 blockbuster that could tilt the group significantly. Estonia will watch closely as they prepare for their own push.

 Group E

Positions: 1^st - Denmark (12 points), 2^nd - Brazil (9 points), 3^rd - Australia (4 points), 4^th - Chile (2 points), 5^th - Hungary (1 point)

Denmark remain the gold standard with five wins, but Brazil showed their pedigree in their bounce-back win over Hungary. Chile vs. Hungary could prove to be the decider for third-place momentum. Australia are winless but can still play spoiler. Brazil-Denmark in Round 10 looms large, but any slip-up before then could be costly.

 Group F

Positions: 1^st - Germany (8 points), 2^nd - Venezuela (7 points), 3^rd - Uruguay (6 points), 4^th - Ireland (4 points), 5^th - Japan (3 points)

Germany continue to lead, but the group remains tight. Ireland face them next and will need to find another level. Japan are unbeaten and face Uruguay, who are hanging by a thread. Venezuela could leap into the top two with the right result. It's a strategic battlefield, and consistency will be key.

 Group G

Positions: 1^st - United States of America (12 points), 2^nd - Lithuania (9 points), 3^rd - Bolivia (6 points), 4^th - Albania (3 points), 5^th - China (0 points)

USA are unbeaten but not untouchable. Lithuania remain a surprise threat, and Albania's late rise puts them back in the conversation. Bolivia and China clash in a virtual elimination match. USA face Albania in a game that suddenly has more meaning than anticipated.

 Group H

Positions: 1^st - Scotland (6 points), 2^nd - Algeria (5 points), 3^rd - France (4 points), 4^th - Sweden (1 point)

Still lagging a match behind, Group H remains tight. Scotland have looked composed, while Algeria and France continue to scrap for second. Sweden must start converting effort into goals. The return legs should clarify the picture—but with this much parity, don’t expect clarity just yet.

 Group I

Positions: 1^st - South Korea (8 points), 2^nd - Italy (8 points), 3^rd - Netherlands (7 points), 4^th - Iceland (4 points), 5^th - Bangladesh (0 points)

Italy’s defense is unmatched, but South Korea have the goal difference advantage and a game in hand. Iceland vs. Korea in Round 6 could be pivotal, especially with the Koreans looking to avenge their earlier draw. Netherlands need points fast, and Bangladesh will aim to catch someone off guard.

 Group J

Positions: 1^st - Latvia (10 points), 2^nd - Czech republic (9 points), 3^rd - South Africa (5 points), 4^th - Peru (3 points), 5^th - Belgium (1 point)

Czech Republic and Latvia remain unbeaten, and their direct rematch could be decisive. South Africa sit just behind, hoping the top two drop points. Peru and Belgium need a flawless second half to stay relevant. All eyes are on Czech Republic vs. Latvia for top billing.

 Group K

Positions: 1^st - Portugal (10 points), 2^nd - India (8 points), 3^rd - Malta (4 points), 4^th - Russia (3 points), 5^th - Canada (1 point)

India and Portugal are pulling away, but the field is still tightly packed. Russia vs. India is do-or-die for the former, while Portugal must beware Malta’s counter-attacks. Canada cannot afford another slip. Every match in this group has potential to change the standings.

 Group L

Positions: 1^st - Poland (12 points), 2^nd - Romania (7 points), 3^rd - Serbia (6 points), 4^th - Bosnia and Herzegovina (2 points), 5^th - Slovenia (1 point)

Poland are still perfect, but now face a revitalized Slovenia. Bosnia and Serbia are level and play each other again—the winner could jump into second. Romania, sitting third, face Poland next and will hope to slow the leaders. This is one of the most volatile groups heading into the second half.