World Cup: European qualification groups one to four

As we come to the last pair of qualifying games in the European groups, there are still some fascinating possibilities. Here we look at groups one to four.

In group one Denmark head the table and only need two draws to win it. One of Sweden, Portugal and Hungary will have to settle for a play-off spot, and two will miss out entirely.

Group two is just as open, with Switzerland leading by three points and an opportunity to almost clinch it when they visit Luxembourg on Saturday. Greece (most likely), Latvia and Israel will probably be looking at a play-off place at best.

In group three the surprise has been the failure of the Czech Republic to dominate the group. Instead, close neighbours Slovakia lead the way by five points and are almost there, but have to play Slovenia (home) and Poland (away). The Czechs are battling for second place along with Slovenia, Northern Ireland and Poland.

Group four has the amazing possibility that Germany may have to settle for a play-off spot. They lead Russia by one point, but have to travel to Russia on Saturday. If the Russians win they are likely to win the group as they only then have bottom-placed Azerbaijan to face when the Germans play Finland on Wednesday. There are no other contenders for qualification from this group. Imagine it...

We look at groups five to nine tomorrow.