Final Day of the September International Break: World Cup Qualifiers Heat Up
As the September international window draws to a close, today — September 9, 2025 — marks a pivotal moment in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. A total of nine fixtures are scheduled across five groups, with plenty at stake as teams jostle for position before the next international break in October.
Group D: Spotlight on France and Ukraine
All eyes will be on Group D, where two crucial matchups could reshape the group standings. In Baku, Azerbaijan host Ukraine in what is already being billed as a must-win for the visitors after a shaky start. Meanwhile, in Paris, it's a heavyweight clash as France take on Iceland — both teams victorious in their opening games. A win here could give either side a commanding lead heading into October, while the loser risks falling off the pace.
Group F: Portugal Look to Maintain Momentum
Group F also enters its second round of matches. Armenia face a determined Republic of Ireland side, while in Budapest, Hungary host star-studded Portugal, led by the evergreen Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese are aiming to keep their perfect record intact and send a strong message to their group rivals.
Group H: Bosnia and Austria Go Head-to-Head
Things are heating up in Group H, where the competition is already well underway. Surprise group leaders Bosnia & Herzegovina — undefeated after four games — will look to continue their fairytale run against fellow unbeaten side Austria, who have played one match fewer. Elsewhere, Cyprus welcome Romania in a clash that could keep the winners in contention.
Group I: Norway Looking to Capitalize
Norway, led by talismanic striker Erling Haaland, are firm favourites as they take on bottom-placed Moldova in Group I. A win here could extend their lead at the top and all but eliminate Moldova from serious contention.
Group K: Clash of Titans – Serbia vs England
Perhaps the most highly anticipated match of the day comes from Group K, where hosts Serbia take on England in a showdown that could decide the top spot. "Three Lions" are under pressure to deliver against a technically gifted Serbian outfit playing on home turf. In the group’s other fixture, Albania meet Latvia in a match with vital implications for the mid-table battle.
What’s Next?
As the dust settles on this international break, teams will already be looking ahead to October’s fixtures. But for now, it’s all about today - a day that could define dreams or dash hopes on the long road to the 2026 World Cup in North America.
