"And with confirmation that the six nations who come through the play-off process, with Ireland and Northern Ireland both hoping to secure one of the four slots open for European sides, there is scope for a nightmare draw against Brazil or Argentina (pot 1), Croatia or Uruguay (pot 2) and Egypt or Algeria (pot 3) or else a more palatable group including a Canada or a stuttering Portugal (pot 1), Austria or Australia (pot 2) and Saudi Arabia or debutants Uzbekistan (pot 3)."
"The potential opponents for the Republic of Ireland at the World Cup finals have become clearer after FIFA today unveiled the procedure for the draw next week."
FIFA unveiled the draw procedure for the World Cup finals, clarifying potential opponents for the Republic of Ireland. Six nations will advance through the play-offs, with Ireland and Northern Ireland aiming for one of four European slots. The draw could produce a very difficult group against pot 1 teams like Brazil or Argentina, pot 2 sides such as Croatia or Uruguay, and pot 3 African teams like Egypt or Algeria. Alternatively, the draw could yield a more manageable group featuring teams such as Canada or Portugal, Austria or Australia, and Saudi Arabia or Uzbekistan.
Read at Independent
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