The teams were sorted into 10 groups : seven groups containing five teams (Groups A–G) and three groups containing six teams (Groups H–J).

were paired together alongside a gritty Republic of Ireland, setting up a blockbuster battle of giants. Group C

Because Germany automatically punched its ticket to the finals as the host nation, the remaining went into the pots to battle for the 23 open slots. 🏗️ The Intricate Mechanics of the Draw