Five Oxford United stars defeated in World Cup play-offs

The Welsh national team suffered a 4-2 penalty-shoutout loss against Bosnia & Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off semi-final after drawing 1-1 in regular time.

U’s striker Mark Harris came on in the 75th minute and scored one of his country’s two successful spot kicks in the shootout.

The 27-year-old came close to scoring with one of the last kicks of extra time but could not find contact with the ball from very close range.

Wales’ Daniel James celebrates scoring their side’s first goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Play-off Semi-final match at the Cardiff City Stadium (Image: David Davies/PA Wire)

Leeds United winger Daniel James scored for Wales in regular time with a sweet strike from range before veteran and former Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko levelled the scores.

Oxford’s four Northern Ireland internationals had their dreams of playing at a World Cup ended by Italy in a 2-0 loss earlier in the evening.

READ MORE: Oxford United’s Championship losses compared against rivals

The Green and White Army suffered defeat in Bergamo in their World Cup play-off semi-final clash with the Azzurri.

Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali opened the scoring in the second half before former Everton striker Moise Kean put the game to bed with 10 minutes to go.

Tempers flare between Northern Ireland’s Jamie Donley and Italy’s Alessandro Bastoni (Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

U’s players Brodie Spencer and Jamie Donley started the game whilst Ciaron Brown and Jamie McDonnell were unused substitutes on the night.

Spencer performed well at left wing back for Northern Ireland, receiving plaudits from the BBC commentators for his adaptability and praise on social media for his display on the international stage.

The two sides could have played each other in the play-off final but will now face each other next week in a match for third place.

Oxford return to action on Good Friday when they welcome Hull City to the Kassam Stadium after the final international break of the season.