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Spain handed Slovakian challenge

14/10/2005

Slovakia stand in the way of Spain in their pursuit of a place in World Cup 2006 after the draw for the qualification play-offs was made today.

The Spaniards, who have a reputation for flattering to deceive at major tournaments, will face the Slovakians in a two-leg tie, with the first match to be held in Spain on November 12th.

Elsewhere, Switzerland have been drawn against World Cup 2002 semi-finalists Turkey, while Norway and the Czech Republic face each other in the final play-off tie.

Norway, who finished second in Scotland's qualifying group despite losing at home to Walter Smith's side, take on the Euro 2004 semi-finalists at home first.

Switzerland, whose goalless draw at Lansdowne Road on Wednesday ensured that the Republic of Ireland will not be competing in Germany next summer, host the Turks first but are likely to be viewed as underdogs when they travel to Istanbul for the second leg four days later.

The winners of the three ties will join group winners Ukraine, Holland, England, Croatia, Italy, Portugal, Serbia & Montenegro; hosts Germany; and best runners-up Sweden and Poland in the finals next year.

In the other play-offs, Oceania representatives Australia face Uruguay in a two-legged affair and Bahrain take on Trinidad & Tobago.

<b>Full European play-off draw:</b>

To be played on November 12th and 16th.

Spain v Slovakia
Switzerland v Turkey
Norway v Czech Republic

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