Official: 2 More Euro Nations Book World Cup Spots
30 March, 2022
Portugal 2-0 North Macedonia
Portugal have qualified for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar after defeating North Macedonia 2-0 on Tuesday night.
Former Real Madrid star Pepe replaced Jose Fonte in the Portugal defence, while Joao Cancelo returned from injury and came in for Diogo Dalot.
The visitors came into the contest on a high after eliminating the reigning European champions Italy with a late winner on Friday night. The 2016 European champions opened the scoring on 32 minutes when Cristiano Ronaldo played in club teammate Bruno Fernandes, who sent a first-time strike into the far corner.
Fernandes, who has not been his usual self this season, doubled the lead for Selecao just after the hour mark after being set up by Diogo Jota.
The visitors were unable to find a way past the Portugal defence on the night, as Fernando Santos' charges held on for the win and a spot at the World Cup.
Poland 2-0 Sweden
Poland will be competing at the World Cup in Qatar after overcoming Sweden in the final round of the play-offs on Tuesday.
Poland were given a bye in the last round of the play-offs after Russia were thrown out of the qualifying by FIFA.
Sweden, meanwhile, overcame the Czech Republic in extra-time to seal a spot in the final round.
After a scoreless first half, Robert Lewandowski gave the home side the lead in the 49th minute from the penalty spot.
The lead was doubled in the 72nd minute as Piotr Zieliński got his first goal in the qualifying campaign at the seventh attempt.
Source: www.soccerladuma.co.za