Belfast: Afghanistan secured a direct qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup after beating Ireland by three wickets in the third ODI here on Monday.After producing a fine bowling performance to bowl Ireland out for a mere 206 in 46.3 overs, Afghanistan slipped from 97 for two to 176 for seven at one stage in their chase.But Rashid Khan hit an unbeaten 37 (43 balls, 4 fours) in the company of a dependable Yamin Ahmadzai (4 not out off 26 balls) to take Afghanistan over the line in 44.5 overs.Also read: IRE vs AFG 2nd ODI 2026: When and where to watch Ireland vs Afghanistan match, check probable playing 11, head-to-head, squads and live streaming detailsAfghanistan, who are currently ranked No. 8, thus secured direct qualification for next year's 50-over World Cup to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.The Afghans, who had entered this contest needing only a win to secure World Cup qualification, had beaten Ireland by 92 runs in the second ODI. The first ODI of the five-match series was washed out.It will be Afghanistan's fourth appearance in an ODI World Cup.