Northern Ireland will play Italy in a semi-final for the 2026 World Cup qualifying play-off in Bergamo on Thursday, aiming for a place in the final and a potential trip to North America.
Michael O’Neill’s team finished their group stage with an important 1-0 win over Luxembourg, boosting their confidence ahead of the play-offs.
While they faced defeats to Germany, showing the gap with Europe’s elite, Northern Ireland has proven to be tough competitors in knockout matches.
Northern Ireland team news
Defender Dan Ballard will miss the match due to a hamstring injury, though he remains in O’Neill’s 28-man squad. Tom Atcheson has been moved up from the Under-21s to add depth in defense.
In midfield, George Saville returns after a suspension, joining fit players Shea Charles and Ali McCann. Goalkeeper Pierce Charles is also back in contention.
However, they will be without key right-back Conor Bradley due to injury, which removes a significant option in attack from the back. Luke Southwood, Ryan Johnson, Jamal Lewis, and winger Ross McCausland are also not in the travel squad, limiting O’Neill’s choices.
Northern Ireland predicted lineup
Possible Northern Ireland starting XI: P. Charles; Hume, McConville, Brown, McNair, Devenny; Saville, S. Charles, McCann; Price, Reid
When will the match kick off?
The match is set to start at 7:45pm BST on Thursday, 26th March.
How to watch Italy vs Northern Ireland?
In the UK, the game will be shown live on BBC Three.
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