World Cup Playoffs: Italy, Denmark progress to finals as Gyokores’ hat trick powers Sweden to victory

Italy are one step away from qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 2014 after seeing off Northern Ireland in the penultimate round.

The Azurri hosted Northern Ireland at the New Balance Stadium in Bergamo for a place in the final round of the World Cup playoffs.

Newcastle United midfielder, Sandro Tonali was the hero of the night as he scored and provided an assist in the 2-0 win.

The Manchester United-linked midfielder scored the opener from a goalmouth scramble as he powered the ball into the back of the net.

With 10 minutes left on the clock, Tonali sends a brilliant cross to the path of Moises Kean and the Fiorentina striker buried the ball inside the net to seal a comfortable win.

Italy will take on Bosnia and Herzegovina for a place at the World Cup on Tuesday

After dismantling North Macedonia, Denmark will face the Czech Republic, while Turkey will play the Czech Republic in the finals.

Sweden will take on Poland in the playoff final after Viktor Gyokores bagged a hat trick to help the Swedes overpower Ukraine.