ZURICH (AP) — A goal in stoppage time at the end of extra time by substitute Fabienne Humm sent Switzerland to the 2023 Women’s World Cup with a 2-1 win over Wales in a playoff on Tuesday.
The favored Swiss were pushed to the limit after twice believing they had taken the lead in the second half of the regulation 90 minutes, but infringements were spotted after the ball went in the Welsh goal.
Humm struck with a flicked shot from a tight angle after racing to meet a low cross from the left wing.
Portugal also won its playoff in extra time, 4-1 against an Iceland team reduced to 10 players when the game was goalless.
Portugal had to wait for the result of the later playoff — with Scotland hosting Ireland — to see if its Women’s World Cup debut was assured.
Only two direct World Cup entries were on offer Tuesday to the teams with the overall best record in qualifying. The third playoff winner will go to the intercontinental playoffs round in February in New Zealand.
Australia and New Zealand are hosting the first 32-team Women’s World Cup from July 20-Aug. 20 where the United States will defend its title.
The finals tournament draw is being made Oct. 22 in Auckland with only 29 entries confirmed. The last three places are decided at the 10-team intercontinental playoffs tournament from Feb. 17-23.
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AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/world-cup