Northern Ireland and Wales face Italian job in play-offs

Craig Bellamy's side host Bosnia in World Cup qualifying semi-final, with either Italy or Michael O'Neill's men in final

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Wales will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup qualifying playoff semifinals in March.

Craig Bellamy’s side secured their place by finishing second behind Belgium in qualifying Group J and will be the home team for the one-off match. Should Wales win, they will face either Italy or Northern Ireland for a place at the finals in North America next summer.

The Republic of Ireland, who booked their spot in dramatic fashion thanks to a last-gasp victory over Hungary, will play away in the Czech Republic in their semifinal. The winner of that match will take on either Denmark or North Macedonia.

Former Wales defender Danny Gabbidon added: “I think the key for Wales was getting the home draw, I feel that with that, they won't be too bothered with who they got. You look at the final, if we get through that, it’s two really tough games with Northern Ireland and Italy. Always difficult playing against the home nations; they just bring a different vibe, different pressure, a different feel. “Italy are a quality outfit, who will be looking to qualify. It will be three World Cups they've missed out on if they don't qualify for this one, so they'll be desperate to get to the World Cup.”