European champions Italy, Portugal in same World Cup play-off bracket

European champions Italy and Portugal could meet for a place at the 2022 World Cup after being drawn in the same play-off bracket on Friday.

The Azzurri and Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal both finished second in their qualifying groups, behind Switzerland and Serbia respectively.

Italy will host North Macedonia in the play-off first round, with Turkey visiting Portugal, before the winners face off for a spot at next year's finals in Qatar.

The following is the draw for the 2022 World Cup European playoffs, held on Friday.

The 12 teams were split into three four-team paths -- each with its own semi-finals and final. Seeded teams were guaranteed a home game in the semi-finals.

The three winning teams from each path qualify for the World Cup in Qatar.

Path A

Semi-final 1: Scotland v Ukraine

Semi-final 2: Wales v Austria

Path B

Semi-final 3: Russia v Poland

Semi-final 4: Sweden v Czech Republic

Path C

Semi-final 5: Italy v North Macedonia

Semi-final 6: Portugal v Turkey