The final chapter of the preliminary competition for the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany™ has been played out. But a dramatic epilogue is still to come in the shape of some tense play-off tussles. In South America, the fifth position in the group (and its associated play-off place) was up for grabs, with a similar situation in the North, Central American and Caribbean Zone (4th place). But it was in Europe, with teams still vying for both direct qualification and play-off spots, that the night's greatest drama was generated. Read on for a review of the night's main action. Asia: Bahrain edge out Uzbekistan
Having returned from the first leg in Tashkent with a 1-1 draw, Bahrain held their Uzbek opponents again in Manama (0-0) to go through on the away goals rule. Their reward is another two-legged showdown, against Trinidad and Tobago (on 12th and 16th November), this time with a place in Germany at stake
North, Central America and Caribbean: Trinidad claim fourth, USA finish first
It was a very similar situation in the CONCACAF region with fourth position, the play-off place against Bahrain, the only one up for grabs. Guatemala and Trinidad and Tobago both had home matches against qualified teams. Trinidad were a point better off but faced the mighty Mexico, while Guatemala hosted fellow Central Americans Costa Rica. Three early goals helped Guatemala to a 3-1 win, but the drama was taking place in Port of Spain where two goals from Stern John helped Trinidad and Tobago come from behind to defeat Mexico 2-1 and clinch fourth spot.
