Play-offs
Southampton appeal dismissed in championship play-off spying case
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A League Arbitration Panel has dismissed Southampton's appeal against expulsion from the Championship play-offs for spying on rival teams. Middlesbrough will now face Hull City in the final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.
Ipswich Town secured an immediate return to the Premier League on the final day of the Championship season with a 3-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers. Goals from George Hirst, Jaden Philogene, and Kasey McAteer sealed the promotion. Hull City earned the final play-off spot by beating Norwich City 2-1.
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Sweden defeated Ukraine 3-1 and Denmark beat North Macedonia 4-0 in the World Cup play-off semi-finals on Thursday evening. Both teams delivered strong second-half performances to secure their places in next week's finals. The matches were part of eight European ties and one inter-confederation clash vying for spots in the 2026 tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
England has become the first European nation to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup through the European Qualifiers. The Three Lions topped Group K with 18 points, ensuring direct qualification as group winners. Other teams remain in contention for direct spots or play-offs ahead of November matches.