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Italian players celebrate after winning a qualification match against Albania on October 9. The Italians were condemned to the play-offs after finishing runners-up to Spain in their qualifying group. Image Credit: AFP

Paris: Four-time world champions Italy were drawn against Sweden on Tuesday in their two-legged play-off for a place at next year’s World Cup.

Italy, who last failed to qualify for the World Cup in 1958, will play the second leg at home in the most eye-catching of the four ties.

Switzerland, who finished second in their qualifying group despite winning nine of their 10 games, were drawn against Northern Ireland, who last qualified in 1986, with the first match in Belfast.

Croatia, runners-up behind Iceland in their group, will face Greece with the first leg at home.

The fourth tie pits Ireland against Denmark, who host the first match.