Portugal crashed to a 2-1 loss to Serbia on Sunday that sent the winners via to the finals in Qatar and pressured Portugal into the playoffs in March as the second one-placed group in Group A.
Croatia, the crushed finalists in 2018, and Spain additionally qualified on Sunday.
Gareth Southgate's England have the best project on Monday as they will ebook their price tag if they keep away from defeat away to minnows San Marino.
Italy although have placed themselves in a tough role when they simplest drew 1-1 with Switzerland on Friday when Jorghino ignored a overdue penalty.
The Italians lead Switzerland on the top of Group C simplest on intention difference, with most effective organization winners guaranteed of a niche.
Roberto Mancini's aspect now take on the already-eliminated Northern Ireland in Belfast knowing they need to in shape Switzerland's result towards Bulgaria, assuming the Swiss do now not win with a clear sufficient margin to overturn the 2-intention gap setting apart the two groups.
The Northern Irish haven't scored towards Italy considering the fact that 1961.
- Made to attend -
Ronaldo's hopes of playing in a record-equalling 5th World Cup hang in the stability after Aleksandar Mitrovic scored a important aim simply earlier than stoppage time to offer Serbia a 2-1 victory that guaranteed them an area in Qatar.
Spain and Croatia secured their locations in Qatar on Sunday way to 1-0 wins over Sweden and Russia respectively.
