Romania are through — one ticket left, and it’s a three-way fight

Romania have already done the job: eight matches, 19 points, and nobody can catch them at the top. With the leaders not involved in the finale, the spotlight swings entirely to the scrap for second.

China (9 pts), Bulgaria (8) and Serbia (7) are all still alive, while Czech Republic (5) are mathematically eliminated. The equation is clearest in the head-to-head: China vs Bulgaria is effectively a direct playoff. If China win, they’ll be unreachable for Serbia. If Bulgaria win, they jump to 11 points and lock down qualification regardless of what happens elsewhere.

The complication comes if China and Bulgaria draw. That would leave China on 10 and Bulgaria on 9, and a Serbia win would pull them level with China — leaving the final berth potentially hanging on tiebreakers.

Either way, Romania may be finished, but Group A isn’t.

Algeria are already through — the second ticket is the only prize left

Algeria will play out the finale with the pressure off: their 16 points have already secured a World Cup place, with no one able to catch them at the top. That leaves the group’s last matchday focused squarely on the race for second, where the margins couldn’t be tighter.

United States (12 pts) hold the final qualifying spot, but Albania (11) are one result away from stealing it. For the USA, the equation is clean: beat Estonia and the ticket is theirs. Anything less — a draw or defeat — opens the door for Albania to jump them with a win over Algeria.

Albania’s task is daunting on paper, but they’ve shown they can trade blows with anyone in this section, and they’ll know exactly what they need by the time they kick off.

Latvia control their fate, Bosnia can leapfrog — India left to wait

The final round in Group C arrives with three teams realistically fighting for two places, while Australia (2 pts) are already eliminated.

Latvia (13 pts) hold the simplest equation: beat Australia and they are guaranteed qualification, no matter what happens elsewhere. A draw would move them to 14, which may or may not be enough depending on events in the other match.

India (14 pts) have completed their campaign and currently sit top, but they can only watch. If Bosnia and Herzegovina (11 pts) defeat Croatia, the Bosnians will jump to 14 and move ahead of India — meaning India would need Latvia to drop points to stay in the top two.

The Bosnia–Croatia clash is therefore decisive. Bosnia know that a win guarantees qualification, regardless of Latvia’s result. Croatia (10 pts), meanwhile, must win and hope Latvia lose to have any chance of sneaking through.

So the picture is clear: Latvia can settle it themselves, Bosnia can secure it with victory, and India must sit through 90 tense minutes with no control over their own fate.

three-way deadlock at the top sets up a straight shootout

Group D has done its best to stay undecided until the last possible moment. Iceland, South Africa and Italy all sit on 13 points, with only goal difference separating the trio after nine rounds.

Italy arrive with momentum after back-to-back wins, including a priceless 1–0 away success in Iceland and a tough 2–1 in Moldova. That surge keeps them right in the mix, but the finale is unforgiving: South Africa stand directly in their way in a head-to-head that functions like a qualifier in itself.

Iceland, meanwhile, have quietly rebuilt after their mid-campaign wobble, responding with a 3–0 win over Thailand and staying level on points at the summit. They now face Moldova, the one side outside the top three that still has the form and discipline to punish any complacency.

With the top locked together and the last day featuring both a head-to-head between contenders and a tricky away-style test for Iceland, there’s no room left for calculations — just 90 minutes to decide who goes through.

Switzerland in control, but second place is still up for grabs

Switzerland have put themselves in a commanding position at the top of Group E, sitting on 16 points with a remarkable 20–3 goal difference. Even their slip against England last time out did little to shake their grip on first, and they’ll have the chance to finish the job when they face Bangladesh in the final round.

The real drama is behind them. England are done after eight matches and can only watch from 11 points as Bangladesh (11) and Slovakia (10) chase the other ticket. Bangladesh have been stubborn throughout — unbeaten in four before that late loss to Finland — and they know a result against the group leaders could settle everything in one shot.

Slovakia, though, have the cleaner route: beat Finland and they’ll apply maximum pressure, forcing Bangladesh to find something against Switzerland. With margins this tight, Group E’s second qualifier is still wide open — but Switzerland remain the one constant, and everyone else is playing catch-up.

Ireland are through — and the rest are scrambling

Ireland have already done the hard part. Six wins from seven have taken them to 18 points, and even that opening-day stumble in Hungary now feels like ancient history. They’ve since rattled off statement performances — including the seven-goal blitz in Uruguay — and arrive at the final round with top spot effectively wrapped up.

Behind them, it’s a far messier picture. Bolivia hold second on 10 points, but their grip has loosened after back-to-back defeats to Hungary and Chile. Chile and Uruguay (done with qualification) are level on eight, with Hungary lurking on seven, meaning one good night could still flip the entire table.

The equation is simple: Bolivia can settle it by taking something off Ireland, while Chile know a win over Hungary gives them a real shot of sneaking into second — especially with Bolivia under pressure. Ireland may be home and dry, but their last match could decide who joins them.

Netherlands already through, Malta chasing the final ticket

Netherlands have done enough. Unbeaten through five matches and sitting on 11 points, they are mathematically qualified regardless of what happens on the final matchday. Their campaign has been built on control rather than spectacle — narrow wins, disciplined defending, and timely goals.

The real tension now surrounds second place. Malta remain best positioned on eight points, having beaten Portugal and twice proven stubborn opposition for the Dutch. A win in their final match would remove any doubt and secure their passage.

Portugal, on five, must produce something special against the already-qualified Netherlands to have any chance, while Sweden (two points) are playing for pride but could still influence who joins the Dutch.

First place is settled. The final 90 minutes will decide who travels alongside them.

Poland are home and dry — Russia wait, Turkey chase

Poland have already wrapped up qualification. They’re on 18 points from seven matches, boasting a stunning 13–1 goal difference, and no one can catch them at the top with just one fixture left.

The more intriguing battle lies behind them: Russia have completed all eight of their matches and sit on 12 points, meaning their fate now rests in Turkey’s hands.

Turkey are the only side with a live route past Russia. They’re on nine points with a game in hand, and victory in the final round would take them to 12 — enough to draw level and force the tiebreakers into play.

France are bottom on three points and will finish as spoilers at best.

Belgium and Scotland are in — final day for pride

Group I is settled ahead of the closing fixtures: Belgium and Scotland have already secured the two qualifying spots, and the remaining teams can no longer reel them in.

Belgium’s work is done after eight matches, while Scotland have matched their points with a game still to play — but either way, the finishing positions are now a secondary detail rather than a fight for survival.

That shifts the spotlight down the table. Israel will look to sign off strongly after hovering in contention for much of the campaign, while South Korea and Argentina have a last chance to salvage momentum and end on a positive note.

With qualification wrapped up, Thursday is about conclusions: performances, pride, and a final statement before the tournament moves on.

Peru lead the way — Montenegro still in striking distance

With one round left, Peru sit in pole position on 12 points, but the margin is thin enough to keep the finale tense. Their campaign has been a rollercoaster — big highs, including that early 3–0 statement over Germany, and some costly slip-ups — yet they still control the group.

Rep. of Montenegro remain right on their shoulder with 11 points still undefeated. They’ve built their bid on control and resilience, conceding just two goals across seven matches, and they’ll fancy their chances of making that defensive edge count one last time.

Behind them, Germany are still lurking on nine after a late surge that included a stunning 7–0 rout of Peru, while Lithuania and New Zealand have been left needing too many favors to force the issue.

Thursday brings the headliner: Montenegro against Peru, with the group’s destiny on the line.

Denmark are in — Slovenia and Venezuela set for a straight shootout

Denmark have already done enough to book their ticket, sitting top on 15 points with one match still to play. Even after the late wobble against Venezuela, the leaders have built a cushion the rest can’t overturn.

So the real drama is reserved for one place: Slovenia vs. Venezuela is now a winner-takes-all showdown for the remaining qualification spot. Slovenia arrive on 13 points and will know that simply holding their nerve keeps them in control, while Venezuela, on 10, must go for broke — but they’ve already shown they can land a punch, including that emphatic 3–0 victory over Denmark.

Spain are already out of the running after completing their schedule on 12 points, and Greece bring up the rear with one point, hoping only to salvage pride in the final round.

Brazil cruise on — Austria and Mexico decide the final ticket

Brazil have already secured their place at the top of the group with 15 points, leaving the final round to determine who joins them.

Norway sit on 10 points but have completed their schedule — and the arithmetic is unforgiving. Whatever happens in the closing fixtures, they cannot finish in the top two.

The spotlight therefore falls squarely on Austria vs. Mexico. Austria are level with Norway on 10 points and know that even a draw would lift them above the Norwegians. A win, of course, seals it outright. Mexico, meanwhile, are on 8 and understand the assignment clearly: victory sends them past Norway and into contention for qualification.

Japan, also on 8, still have a say as they face Brazil, but the decisive swing will come in Austria’s showdown with Mexico. One ticket remains — and it won’t be Norway’s.

Sweden are in — one place left for Czech Republic or Malta

The finish line is in sight in Group A, and one thing is already settled: Sweden have their U21 World Cup ticket booked. Six wins from eight and 19 points puts them out of reach, and they’ll watch Thursday knowing the job is done.

The drama is all in the race for second. Czech republic and Malta are level on 13 points with one match remaining each, and only one of them will join Sweden at the World Cup. Czech Republic come into the finale with momentum after a ruthless 7–0 demolition of Bulgaria, powered by Jiri Janecek’s four-goal burst inside the opening half-hour. Malta, meanwhile, were beaten 4–1 by Sweden last time out, but they’ve already shown they can deliver under pressure — including earlier wins over both Czech Republic and Germany.

There’s no late miracle route for the rest: Germany and Bulgaria are mathematically eliminated. Thursday is simple now — one final step, one final ticket.

Tickets already stamped — Netherlands and Norway through

Group B’s sprint-format schedule leaves no room for late chaos, and it has done its job early: Netherlands and Norway are already mathematically qualified for the U21 World Cup. With both sitting on 10 points after five matches, neither Japan nor South Africa can catch them with only one game left.

That doesn’t mean Thursday is meaningless. The group still has pride, momentum and a final statement on the line.

Down the table, the picture is clear: Japan and South Africa are eliminated. Japan did at least end their run of frustration with a strong 3–0 win over South Africa last time out, while South Africa’s best point — a gritty 0–0 draw with the Netherlands — now stands as a footnote rather than a turning point.

Tickets punched — Argentina and Belgium head to the World Cup

The suspense is gone in Group C: Argentina and Belgium have already secured the two qualifying places, turning Thursday’s finale into little more than a battle for pride and positioning.

Argentina’s place was never really in doubt. They lead the section on 18 points from seven matches, powered by six wins and a lone setback — the 2–1 slip in Bangladesh that briefly broke their perfect rhythm. Even so, they have routinely found answers, whether in the early 3–1 win over India or the controlled 2–0 victory against Belgium.

Belgium, meanwhile, have done enough to follow them through. Sitting second on 13 points, they steadied after a surprise 0–2 defeat to India, responded with a commanding 4–1 against Algeria, and then delivered the key moment in the run-in by edging India 1–0 away thanks to Tibo Van Duyse.

That leaves India and Bangladesh playing out the string, while Algeria are anchored at the bottom on 4 points. The closing fixtures may not affect qualification, but there’s still one headline left to write: can Belgium finally halt Argentina’s march, or will the group winners sign off with another statement?

Group D set for a nerve-shredder: Ireland hold the keys, Finland forced to watch

It’s a photo finish in Group D, and the strangest part is that Finland can only sit and wait. Their campaign is complete at 11 points with a perfectly balanced record and goal difference, leaving them vulnerable to a final-day swing behind them.

Ireland still control their fate. Level with Finland on points but with a healthier goal difference, they know a win over Slovakia removes all doubt — and even a draw would likely be enough to book the ticket. The Irish steadied themselves after losses to Switzerland and Finland by brushing Switzerland aside 3–0 last time out, with Mark O’Doherty and Jason Lyons among the goals.

Slovakia are the immediate threat on 9 points. A victory would lift them to 12 and almost certainly into the top two, powered by the ever-reliable Michal Maliarik between the posts.

The other twist comes in the all-or-nothing clash between Israel and Switzerland. Both sit on 8 points, meaning a win takes either side to 11 — and if Ireland slip, Finland could suddenly be dragged into a tiebreak they can’t influence. Expect fireworks.

Group E settled early as Peru and Turkey cruise through

There will be no last-day drama in Group E. Peru and Turkey have already secured the two qualifying places, turning the final fixtures into little more than a matter of finishing order.

The decisive moment came in the gripping 2–2 draw between the leaders. Turkey looked set to take full control when Hakan Gunerman struck twice in quick succession, but Peru answered through Lucio Zela and Anselmo Guzman to preserve their edge. That point ensured both sides stayed clear of the chasing pack — and out of reach.

Peru’s campaign has been built on attacking fluency, highlighted by the 3–0 dismissal of Canada and key wins over Serbia and Albania. Turkey, meanwhile, have combined discipline with timely firepower, including a statement 2–0 victory over Serbia and a narrow but crucial win in Lima.

Serbia, Albania and Canada have all had their moments, but inconsistency proved costly. With the tickets already stamped, Group E signs off without tension — but not without quality.

Slovenia untouchable, Thailand left watching and waiting in Group F

There has been no doubt about first place in Group F. Slovenia have swept through the section with authority — unbeaten in nine, 35 goals scored, and statement wins that include a 16–1 demolition of Spain and a dramatic 4–3 victory over Thailand. Even a rare stumble in Estonia did little to disturb their momentum. Qualification is secured; the only question left is who joins them.

That uncertainty hangs over Thailand. Their campaign has been explosive at times — the unforgettable 8–0 rout of Spain and key victories over Bolivia and Estonia showcased their attacking edge. But with all eight matches now played, Thailand’s fate is no longer in their own hands.

The spotlight shifts to Bolivia, who sit just one point behind and still have one final opportunity. Back-to-back 1–0 wins over Spain and Estonia kept them alive, and now they face the ultimate test: beating Slovenia. If Bolivia pull off the upset, they leapfrog Thailand. If not, Thailand’s long wait ends in celebration.

For Spain and Estonia, the final whistle will close a difficult campaign. For everyone else, Group F comes down to ninety decisive minutes.

Brazil cruise on, but second place is still up for grabs

Brazil have turned Group G into a personal highlight reel: eight wins from eight, a staggering 39–3 goal difference, and scorelines that barely look real — none more so than the 22–0 opening-day demolition of Lithuania. They’ve kept the foot down ever since, brushing aside everyone from Uruguay to Romania, and arrive at the final matchday with perfection already secured.

The real tension sits behind them. Latvia hold second on 9 points and have shown they’re hard to beat — three draws, a memorable 2–1 win over Romania, and only narrow defeats against the runaway leaders. But with one game left, Latvia are still looking over their shoulder.

Romania are next in line on 7 points and finish against Uruguay, who have struggled for results but have proven stubborn enough to nick points elsewhere. Romania’s route is simple: win and hope Latvia slip. Lithuania, meanwhile, sit on 6 points and can still dream — but they’ll need a big performance and some help, especially given the damage already done to their goal record.

Brazil’s job is complete. For everyone else, it’s a final-day scramble for the last ticket.

No final-day drama in Group H: Italy and England are safely through

The last round in Group H is now more formality than fight. Italy and England have already done enough to lock up the two qualifying places, and no one below them can still reach 14 points.

Italy stay on top after a run built on control and timely punches — including the 3–0 win in Portugal and the earlier share of the spoils with England. England, meanwhile, kept their own momentum with big results at both ends of the group, and even with all eight matches completed they can head into the finale knowing their ticket is already stamped.

That leaves the remaining fixtures as a chance to finish with pride. France will try to spoil Italy’s closing night, while Scotland and Portugal play for a better final position — and something positive to take forward after a group that ultimately pulled away at the top.

One ticket left as Iceland hold the advantage

The final round in Group I will decide who joins Rep. of Montenegro in the next stage. Montenegro have already completed their campaign on 16 points and are safely through, their consistency — capped by the emphatic 7–0 win over the United States — proving decisive.

The focus now shifts to Iceland, who sit second on 13 points. The equation is simple: a draw is enough to confirm qualification. After trading blows with both Montenegro and South Korea across the group, Iceland have put themselves in control and need only avoid defeat in their final outing.

South Korea, on 10 points, still have a narrow path. They must win their last match and hope Iceland lose. Anything less, and their late surge — including the impressive 2–0 victory over Montenegro — will not be enough.

United States and Venezuela are already out of contention, but they can still influence the final standings. One matchday remains, and while Montenegro can relax, Iceland know a single point will finish the job.

Denmark set the pace, Poland safely alongside them

Group J is effectively settled heading into the final matchday. Denmark have been the division’s pacesetters from the start and, with 19 points from seven games, they’ve already made sure nobody can reel them in. Even after conceding a few along the way, Denmark’s attacking output has carried them — and Jesper Petersen has been the headline act, ripping through defences with a string of decisive goals.

Poland are also out of reach in second. Sitting on 13 points, they can’t be caught by the chasing pack, turning their trip to Australia into a chance to finish strongly rather than a must-win. Their campaign has been built on relentless forward play, with Boleslaw Wejman repeatedly delivering in big moments.

That leaves Australia and Colombia playing for pride, while Croatia — despite a late uptick in results — have already run out of road. Denmark’s closing match against Colombia may not change the standings, but it’s still a chance for the leaders to put a final stamp on an outstanding group stage.

Moldova cruise on as second place comes down to one last shootout

Moldova have turned Group K into a procession. Unbeaten after seven matches with a staggering 20–1 goal record, they’ve already wrapped up qualification in style — built on ruthless finishing and an even more ruthless back line.

All the drama is behind them. Austria and Bosnia and Herzegovina go into the final round separated by a single point, and it’s a simple equation: Austria only need a draw to secure second, while Bosnia must win to jump above them.

Austria have been a study in extremes — only two wins, yet 25 goals scored, thanks largely to one-way traffic against the group’s strugglers. Bosnia, by contrast, have kept things tighter (just four conceded) but now need their attack to deliver when it matters most.

Russia, already finished on nine points, can only watch and hope for favours that won’t come. At the bottom, Greece have endured a miserable campaign, and the task doesn’t get any kinder with Moldova still in full stride.

Hungary and Chile punch their tickets as the race below runs out of road

The tension has drained out of the top of Group L: Hungary and Chile have done enough to lock up qualification. With the table now split, the leaders can’t be caught by the teams chasing in third.

Hungary sit first on 14 points, a full five points clear of Mexico in third, and that gap is already too large to be overturned with one match left. Chile, meanwhile, have built their own cushion — 13 points and four ahead of third — meaning second place is also secured regardless of what happens elsewhere.

That doesn’t mean the closing fixtures are meaningless. Pride, momentum, and finishing positions are still on the line, and both qualified sides will want to end the group phase with authority. But the major verdict is already in: Hungary and Chile are safely through, and the rest are left playing for consolation.

Lithuania are through — Australia and China set for a final-day scrap

Lithuania have already punched their World Cup ticket. Leaders on 16 points from eight, they can no longer be caught by anyone in the chasing pack, and they’ll watch the finale knowing the job is done.

The tension sits squarely behind them. Australia currently hold second on 11 points, but China are right on their heels with 10 after last round’s 2–0 win over the Australians — a result that reignited the race and left the group finely poised.

Thursday’s closer is brutally simple for Australia: avoid defeat against Finland and they’re very likely home, with their goal difference a major safety net if things get messy. China, meanwhile, have a clear path: beat Argentina — already eliminated with only five points — and the pressure flips entirely onto Australia.

Finland aren’t out either, but they need a win and help elsewhere to sneak into the top two. One matchday, three hopefuls, and only one place left.

USA are in — Austria and Moldova brace for a straight shootout

United States of America have turned this group into a procession. Seven wins from seven, 21 points, and a place at the World Cup already secured — nobody can catch them, and they head into the finale with the freedom to play spoiler rather than chase points.

All the drama sits in the fight for second. Austria lead the chase on 13 points, but Moldova are just a single point back on 12, setting up a decisive Thursday showdown. The equation is clean: Austria qualify with a win or a draw; Moldova must win to jump into the top two and book their ticket.

Behind them, the door is already closed. South Africa are stuck on six points from eight and can’t reach the top two even with a final-day miracle. Uruguay, with one point all campaign, are likewise mathematically eliminated.

So the group ends with one last high-stakes duel — and one heavyweight already waiting at the departure gate.

Netherlands and Czech Republic secure qualification, finale for positioning only

The race is over at the top. Netherlands and Czech republic have both clinched qualification, and no result on the final matchday can dislodge them from the top two. With 14 points, the Dutch currently lead the section, while the Czechs sit just one point behind on 13, but the chasing trio can no longer bridge the gap.

Netherlands’ campaign has swung between emphatic highs — the 5–0 demolition of Spain and the commanding 4–1 win over Hungary — and surprising setbacks, most notably the 0–2 home defeat to Estonia. Still, they’ve collected enough points to stay in front when it mattered. The Czechs, meanwhile, built their qualification on strong head-to-head performances, including a 3–1 win away in the Netherlands and a composed 2–0 over Estonia.

That leaves the final round as a matter of placement and pride. Estonia, Hungary, and Spain are separated by just two points, but mathematically locked out of the top two. Estonia host the Czech Republic, while Spain meet Hungary — fixtures that will shape the final standings, even if the tickets have already been claimed.

Croatia cruise on, Chile clinch early as Group D settles before the last kick

There’s no late drama left to script at the top of Group D. Croatia have been untouchable — 19 points from seven, unbeaten, and already out of reach even if they slip in the finale. Behind them, Chile have also done enough to lock down second place, with neither Peru nor Russia able to climb past 13 points.

Croatia’s run has been defined by control and punishment: a 3–0 shutout of Russia, a second 2–0 win over them, and a ruthless 4–0 against Peru to underline the gap. The headline act remains the wild 4–3 win over Chile, powered by Alberto Dracar’s unforgettable treble.

Chile, meanwhile, have mixed heavy artillery with the odd wobble. They were stunned 2–0 in Russia, but responded by tearing Slovakia apart twice — including a 10–0 avalanche — with Valerio Gomez in frightening touch, eight goals across those two games.

With the qualification places already decided, the final round is about finishing sharp: Croatia can put an exclamation point on their dominance, while Chile get one last chance to settle the score against Russia and head into the next stage with momentum.

Poland and England set up a final-day shootout as Germany watch from the sidelines

Group E has turned into a three-way scrap with one round left — and Germany can only wait to see how it breaks. They’re currently top on 16 points, but with their fixtures complete, the door is still open for both Poland and England to reshuffle the top two.

Poland hold the steering wheel

Poland sit on 15 points unbeaten, and they’ve done the hard part by taking four points from England and beating Germany 4–1. Now the equation is simple: keep the momentum going and they can finish the job — even the goalless draw with Germany last time out showed how tough they’ve become to break down.

England need goals — and a favour

England are right behind on 14 after rolling Bosnia twice and edging Algeria 1–0 away, with Dwight Nye and Zacharias Spears leading the charge. But they can’t afford hesitation: victory is essential, and anything less leaves the door wide open for Poland to shut this race down.

With one match each remaining, it’s a final-day scenario where one slip could decide everything.

Final day, four teams dreaming: Group F still wide open

With one round left, Group F is balanced on a knife-edge. France lead on 13 points, but they’re far from safe after a campaign that’s swung from tight wins to costly slips. The 1–0 opener over Sweden set the tone, yet defeats to Malta and Sweden — plus a bruising 1–4 loss to Iceland — have kept the door wide open.

Iceland arrive with momentum

Iceland are just a point back on 12, and they’ve proven they can hurt anyone in this group. Their statement was that four-goal burst in France, and even when France nicked a lead in Iceland, they still found an equaliser late through Oddur Noason.

Sweden and Malta still in the hunt

Both Sweden and Malta sit on 10 points, and both have shown they can upset the hierarchy. Sweden have already beaten France 3–1, while Malta have taken points off everyone — including France twice — and arrive on the back of a gritty 0–0 draw in Scotland.

One more twist is guaranteed — and the table could look completely different by the final whistle.

Latvia set the pace, Portugal keep pressure on

With one round to go, Latvia are in pole position on 16 points, and they’ve earned their ticket the hard way: big wins, relentless control, and a late surge that’s blown the race open. Their statement performance came last time out, a crushing 5–0 win in Mexico that underlined just how ruthless this side can be.

Portugal still have a route to the top

Portugal remain the closest challengers on 14. They’ve beaten Ireland twice (including a 4–1 away-style rout) and edged Mexico 1–0, but the two dropped points against Latvia and Switzerland have left them needing help as well as a result of their own.

Switzerland wobble at the wrong time

Switzerland sit third on 11 after a rollercoaster: a superb 3–0 win over Latvia, a wild 3–3 draw in Mexico, and then a damaging 0–1 home defeat to Ireland. They still have the firepower to upset anyone — but now they need a finish worthy of their highs.

Behind them, Ireland have finally found bite, while Mexico are playing for pride after a rough campaign. The last matchday has plenty left to decide.

Romania are safe — all eyes on the shootout for second

The final day in Group H is refreshingly simple at the top. Romania have already wrapped up qualification for the U19 World Cup, and even that shock 0–4 loss to South Korea changed nothing about it. They’re through, full stop.

That leaves one ticket on the table — and it’s headed to a head-to-head decider. Italy sit second on 11 points, with Norway right behind on 10, and they meet today in a straight winner-takes-it-all clash. Italy only need to avoid defeat; Norway have no such luxury and must win to leapfrog them at the finish.

Behind them, there’s no late twist coming: South Korea and Colombia are already out of the qualification picture. So the storyline is clear — Romania can breathe, everyone else watches Italy vs Norway decide the final qualifier.

Brazil are safe — the scrap for second goes down to the wire

Group I heads into the final round with one certainty and one big question. Brazil sit top on 11 points and, with everyone else too far back, their U19 World Cup place is already in the bag. Even a slip-up in the finale won’t knock them out of the top two.

The real tension is behind them. Albania hold second on 6, with Denmark on 4 and Bangladesh on 3 still clinging on. Albania have the cleanest path: win and they’re through, no questions asked.

Denmark’s route is far harsher — they likely need to beat Brazil to have a genuine shot, and even then they may still require help elsewhere depending on the margin. Bangladesh are the outsiders, but not eliminated: a win keeps the dream alive, and an emphatic one could even swing the tie-break picture their way.

One ticket remains. Albania start in pole position, but the final night still has room for a twist.

Serbia and Belgium have done the job — final round is about finishing strong

Group J goes into its last set of fixtures with the big question already answered. Serbia lead the way on 18 points, while Belgium sit second on 15, and the gap to Canada in third is simply too large to bridge with one match left. Whatever happens tonight, Serbia and Belgium have secured the two U19 World Cup places.

That doesn’t mean the finale is meaningless. Serbia have been the division’s standard-setters — six wins from seven, 18 goals scored, and a statement 3–1 and 3–1 double over Belgium. Belgium, meanwhile, will want a response after that latest setback, and a clean performance would restore some shine to an otherwise excellent campaign.

Canada are playing for respectability after a frustrating run against the top two, while Israel and Japan are left chasing a positive sign-off in a group that has been unforgiving from the start.

Thailand are home and dry — the last ticket will be decided on the final day

Thailand have made Group K their own. Nine rounds in, they remain perfect — 7 wins from 7, 20 goals scored, just 4 conceded — and their place at the U19 World Cup is already secured. Even with one match left, nobody can touch them at the summit.

The real intrigue lies behind them, but the picture has sharpened. Turkey, after an explosive start that included a 7–0 demolition of Greece, are now officially eliminated. With Greece and India facing each other in the final round, one of those two is guaranteed to finish above Turkey — and that shuts the door completely.

That leaves Bulgaria in pole position on goal difference, level on points with India and Turkey but still masters of their own destiny. A result against the already-qualified leaders would remove all doubt. Meanwhile, India must beat Greece and hope Thailand do them a favour.

Thailand are cruising. Everyone else is scrambling for the last remaining ticket.

Slovenia perfect, Bolivia prolific — Group L closes with a heavyweight finale

Slovenia have been relentless: seven matches, seven wins, and a defence that has conceded just four times. Even when pushed, they’ve found another gear — the 5–2 away win in New Zealand and the 4–1 statement over Bolivia underlined how hard they are to unsettle.

Bolivia have been almost as convincing, piling up 20 goals and swatting aside most of the chasing pack. Their midfield engine has kept humming, and Leopoldo Pinto has been the headline act — most recently with a ruthless hat-trick in the 3–0 win in Venezuela.

That sets up a mouth-watering closer: Bolivia get one last swing at the leaders, knowing only a win gives them a chance to flip the script at the top. Slovenia, meanwhile, will be determined to protect the spotless record and finish the campaign with another statement.

Elsewhere, Rep. of Montenegro have done enough to secure third, while New Zealand finally found some joy with back-to-back wins before running into Slovenia again. Venezuela remain winless, and will be looking for any kind of lift in the finale.

Peru are in — Bulgaria and Mexico scrap for the last ticket

Peru (U17) will play the final round with their U17 World Cup place already secured. Five matches have delivered 12 points and a thunderous 18–4 goal difference, highlighted by the ruthless 8–0 dismantling of Bulgaria and a late surge to beat Spain earlier in the campaign. For a side that finished 5th in their qualification group in the previous cycle, the shift has been emphatic.

Behind them, the drama is concentrated into a two-team chase. Bulgaria sit second on 9 points and control their own fate: avoid defeat against Spain and they’ll be very hard to dislodge. Mexico, on 7 points, have only one route — they must beat Peru, then hope Bulgaria stumble. Any Bulgarian win ends the contest on the spot.

At the other end, Spain are already out on 1 point, but they can still decide who joins Peru at the World Cup. With one matchday left, Group A’s only remaining question is simple: will Bulgaria finish the job, or can Mexico force a final-round heist?

Latvia and Poland are in — the last day is a formality

The drama has already drained out of Group B. Latvia have long since turned this section into a one-team parade, rolling into the final round unbeaten on 19 points and with the best defensive record in the group (4 conceded). Their U17 World Cup ticket is safely stamped.

The second place is settled as well. Poland sit on 13 points, and that number can’t be reached by the chasing pack. Slovakia are four points back on 9; even with a win in their last match they would only climb to 12, still one short of catching Poland. South Korea are even further behind on 8, so the arithmetic shuts the door completely.

That leaves the final fixtures as little more than a closing act: Latvia can cap a superb campaign against Algeria, who are already eliminated on 2 points, while Slovakia and South Korea play for pride and final position rather than qualification.

Lithuania look safe, but the real fight is USA vs Argentina

With one matchday left, Group C has a clear headline: the race for the second World Cup place is a straight shootout between United States of America and Argentina.

Lithuania sit on 18 points after eight games and have done most of the heavy lifting already — including a thumping 5–0 win over Argentina earlier in the campaign. Even if the chasing pair both win to reach 18, Lithuania’s overall body of work (and goal difference) leaves them looking firmly in control of a top-two finish.

The tension sits just below them. The USA and Argentina are level on 15 points, but the Americans have the edge on goal difference (10–3 vs 12–13) and hold a key head-to-head advantage thanks to that 4–0 demolition of Argentina in January. In practical terms, that means Argentina likely need help: victory over India may not be enough unless Belgium take points off the USA.

Belgium and India are already out of contention, so their only role now is to decide who goes with Lithuania — and who is left watching.

Germany cruise through, China and New Zealand set for a straight final

Germany have already done the hard part. Seven wins from eight have carried them to 21 points and safely into the World Cup, with their only blemish coming in a late 0–1 loss to China. Even that result barely slowed them down — they followed it up by edging New Zealand and keeping their lead intact.

The second qualifying spot, though, is heading for a head-to-head decider. China start the final round on 16 points, with New Zealand three back on 13. That gap makes the maths simple: China only need a draw to punch their ticket, while New Zealand must win to leapfrog them at the finish.

China have been the more controlled side across the campaign, unbeaten in six of seven and tightening up after their early 1–3 defeat to Germany. New Zealand, meanwhile, have had fireworks at both ends — including a breathless 4–3 loss to Germany — and will be leaning on their ability to score under pressure one more time.

At the bottom, Sweden and Hungary are playing for pride only, both stranded on one point apiece.

Romania and Colombia are through — Chile left chasing shadows

Romania have long since made this a one-team procession at the top, and now Colombia can finally breathe easy as well. With Colombia sitting on 14 points, the numbers have turned the final matchday into a formality as far as qualification is concerned.

The closing fixtures are now about pride, positioning, and momentum rather than survival. Romania can cap an unbeaten group with another statement, Colombia can steady themselves after the wild swing in results, and Chile are left to wonder how a late surge still wasn’t enough to bridge the gap. Qualification is settled; only the final flourish remains.

Portugal Cruise On, Venezuela Hold the Chase Pack at Arm’s Length

Portugal are already safely through at the top — nobody can catch them.

The second ticket is still technically up for grabs, but it’s a very narrow path. Venezuela sit on 12 points, with Croatia on 10 and Israel on 8.

That means Croatia must beat Portugal to jump to 13 and put real pressure on Venezuela. Even then, Croatia still need help: Venezuela would have to lose to Israel and stay on 12 for Croatia to steal second place. Any other combination — a Venezuela draw or win, or Croatia dropping points against Portugal — leaves Venezuela out of reach and confirms them as qualifiers.

Slovenia Unstoppable, Serbia Secure as Final Round Awaits

Slovenia have turned Group G into a procession. Nine matches, nine wins, 44 goals scored and just 4 conceded — a staggering campaign built on ruthless attacking displays and total control. From the opening demolition of England to repeated five-goal performances, they have overwhelmed every opponent placed in front of them.

Serbia remain firmly in second with 16 points, their explosive victory over Denmark setting the tone early. While heavy defeats to Slovenia dented momentum, Serbia’s firepower has ensured they stay comfortably ahead of the chasing pack.

England, despite managerial change after two disastrous opening rounds, recovered respectably with dominant wins over Denmark and Iceland. However, inconsistency — particularly against the top two — leaves them too far adrift to challenge for qualification.

At the bottom, Iceland and Denmark have struggled defensively, conceding heavily throughout a punishing group campaign.

The final round now brings the headline clash: Serbia vs Slovenia. While the standings are effectively settled, pride — and momentum — remain very much on the line.

Austria Hold the Edge, Italy Still Have a Say

One last twist at the top, and the bottom already settled

The final matchday in Group H is all about bragging rights at the summit. Austria (17 points) and Italy (16) have already put daylight between themselves and the chasing pack — Canada are stuck on 14 after eight games — so the finishing order will be decided in a straight shootout.

Austria arrive with the steadiest résumé: unbeaten across seven outings and tough to break down, conceding just four goals all campaign. Italy, though, have shown the sharper bite going forward, with 16 scored, and they’ll know a single win flips the standings at the last.

Elsewhere, there’s far less suspense. Greece are winless and goalless on points, and even victory can’t lift them off the foot of the table. Bangladesh’s four points have at least secured them fourth, leaving the final day to settle only the headline: who finishes first.

Turkey cruise on, Montenegro safe despite the tight gap

Group I heads into the finale with only pride — and momentum — left to settle

Turkey have turned Group I into a procession, winning all seven of their matches and pairing a ruthless attack with a back line that rarely gives anything away. The last round only underlined the gap: another clean win kept them perfect and left everyone else chasing shadows.

The interesting subplot sits behind them. Rep. of Montenegro technically hold only a two-point cushion over South Africa, but the numbers hide a key detail: South Africa have already played all eight games, so their total is locked in. Montenegro still have a match in hand, meaning second place is theirs to protect rather than to win — a result that avoids defeat will keep them clear.

Further down, the race has fizzled out. Czech Republic and Uruguay are simply too far back to change the pecking order, even with a final-day victory, leaving both sides focused on finishing with a positive note.

Ireland already secure, second place to be settled on the final whistle

The closing round in Group J will not change one key fact: Ireland are through. Their consistency across the campaign has ensured a top-two finish regardless of other results, leaving them free to focus solely on where they land rather than whether they advance.

The tension instead surrounds the battle just behind them. Moldova head into the finale knowing that their destiny is in their own hands. A solid result against Ireland would be enough to carry them into the qualification places.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, by contrast, have completed their schedule and can only watch. Their hopes hinge entirely on Ireland doing them a favour; anything Moldova take from the final match would leave Bosnia short.

Elsewhere, Scotland and Russia are left playing for pride, with the decisive spotlight firmly fixed on the showdown between the group leaders and their closest challengers.

France chase a late twist as Switzerland watch from the summit

Group K reaches its final act with the big picture already clear: Switzerland have done their job and sit top after completing their schedule, while France arrive on the last matchday safely in the qualification places and still close enough to make the finish interesting.

The equation is simple for the French: they can still take first place with a strong result against Albania, turning an already prolific campaign into a group-winning one. Switzerland, unbeaten in seven of eight, can only look on and hope their lead holds.

Behind the top two, the focus shifts to pride and position. Albania and Thailand are locked together on points, and with Thailand facing Estonia, there’s a clear opportunity for someone to finish “best of the rest.” Estonia, still searching for a win, will see their finale as a chance to finally turn stubborn draws into something more.

Heavyweights safe, but top spot still up for grabs

The final matchday in Group L is a rare mix of certainty and intrigue. Brazil and the Netherlands have already put daylight between themselves and the chasing pack, so the qualification question is settled — but the order of the top two is not.

Brazil lead by a point and still control the finish, yet their slip to a 1–1 draw with Bolivia last time out has left the door ajar. The Netherlands arrive with momentum after a ruthless 4–0 win over Finland, and they know a strong closing night can still flip the group on its head.

Best of the rest: Bolivia vs Norway

Behind them, it’s a straight shootout for third. Bolivia sit one point clear of Norway, but both face brutal assignments against the already-qualified pair. Bolivia’s late equaliser against Brazil showed they can land a punch, while Norway’s campaign has been uneven — dangerous on their day, but with no margin left for error.

Finland, winless after eight, have endured a long campaign, and now the spotlight stays firmly on the teams still fighting for the best possible finish.