Europe's national teams embark on the journey to be one of 13 teams to join hosts South Africa and the rest of the world at the 2010 World Cup.
Qualifying takes place over two years. Each of the group winners (nine groups in total) automatically qualify for the World Cup finals.
The eight best runners-up will take part in a drawn home-and-home format series to determine the final four UEFA participants to join the group winners in South Africa.
Spain are the current reigning European Champions, while Italy are the reigning World Cup champions from 2006. Both teams must qualify for the World Cup finals.
Sky News: Will FIFA allow replay?
Sky News reviews FIFA's rules on playing the Ireland-France match again. Also hear from UEFA's president about using instant replay.
Sky News: Ireland requests a replay
Sky news talks with FAI Chief Executive John Delaney about Ireland's request for an appeal after their controversial loss to France.