Italy are edging closer to their first World Cup appearance since 2014 after beating Northern Ireland 2-0 in their European zone playoff semifinal this morning.

The Azzurri will next face Bosnia Herzegovina who defeated Wales on penalties after being tied 1-1 after extra-time.

Meanwhile, Denmark thrashed North Macedonia 4-0.

Up next for the Danes will be the Czech Republic…who also needed spot kicks to beat the Republic of Ireland following their 2-2 draw.

In other results… Poland defeated Albania 2-1.

Turkiye overcame Romania 1-0.

Sweden beat Ukraine 3-1.

While Kosovo edged past Slovakia 4-3.

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Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe marked his return from injury with a goal…as France defeated Brazil 2-1 in an international friendly.

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Former world champion and Olympic gold medalist Carolina Marin has retired from professional badminton at the age of 32 after a long battle with a knee injury.

The Spaniard is the only woman from outside Asia to win the Olympics singles title.

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And…

Lee Zii Jia will link up with the national badminton team next week to start training for the Thomas Cup where the pro shuttler is set to play as the third singles.