The World Cup playoff draw reveals two distinct and challenging final hurdles for the home nations: the historical power of Italy and the contemporary consistency of Denmark.
Wales faces the highest likelihood of a final against Italy in Cardiff, assuming both progress. The tactical battle and psychological pressure on the Azzurri will be enormous in that potential fixture.
The Republic of Ireland, should they win in Prague against the Czech Republic, will most likely host a final against Denmark. The Danes are favorites in their semi-final against North Macedonia, representing a tough, technically sound opponent for Ireland’s home final.
Northern Ireland, in the unlikely event of defeating Italy, would face Wales in a final, avoiding the major powerhouses.
The semi-finals on March 26 are merely the prelude to these potentially titanic final clashes on March 31, where the home nations must overcome global football forces to reach the World Cup.