Sweden Books World Cup Play-off Final Spot with Gyokeres' Hat-trick

Viktor Gyokeres scored a hat-trick for Sweden as they defeated Ukraine 3-1 to secure a World Cup play-off final against Poland. Gyokeres, who plays for Arsenal, netted in the sixth minute, then again in the 51st, and finally scored a penalty in the 71st minute. Ukraine managed a consolation goal through Matviy Ponomarenko in the 90th minute, but Sweden had already sealed their victory. They will now face Poland, who came from behind to beat Albania 2-1, with Robert Lewandowski and Piotr Zielinski scoring in the second half. Poland maintained their perfect play-off record, having qualified for the last World Cup and Euro 2024 through the same route. Meanwhile, Turkey moved closer to ending their long World Cup absence with a 1-0 win over Romania, and Kosovo, who are bidding to reach the tournament for the first time, will play Turkey after beating Slovakia 4-3. Denmark powered to a 4-0 win over North Macedonia and will face the Czech Republic, who beat the Republic of Ireland on penalties, in their play-off final. Bosnia and Herzegovina's Edin Dzeko scored a late equaliser before his side beat Wales 4-2 on penalties, setting up a home clash against Italy, who beat Northern Ireland 2-0.