Michael O'Neill has voiced his confidence in Northern Ireland's chances against Italy in their upcoming World Cup qualifying play-off match. The Northern Ireland team is set to travel to Italy for the crucial semi-final fixture. The winner of this match will then face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina for a spot in the 2026 World Cup in North America.
O'Neill acknowledged that Italy was a team they ideally would have avoided in the play-off draw but stressed the need to overcome strong teams to reach the World Cup. He recognizes the significant pressure on the Italian side, especially considering their failure to qualify for the last two World Cups. O'Neill hopes Northern Ireland can capitalize on this pressure and use it to their advantage.
"Italy away will be a massive game, great game for us to be involved in," O'Neill stated. "Obviously the expectation and the pressure is very much on the Italians and we have to try to use that in our favour and we have to believe".
O'Neill has expressed satisfaction with his team's performances throughout the campaign, particularly their away form. He hopes these strong performances will give the team the confidence needed to secure a victory in Italy.
A key factor for Northern Ireland's success, according to O'Neill, will be the availability and strength of his players come March. He believes that if the team is at full strength, they are capable of achieving the right result.
While admitting that he hasn't been closely following the Italian team, as his focus was on Northern Ireland's group, O'Neill is aware of their capabilities. He also knows that Italy lost at home and drew with North Macedonia in the World Cup Qualification.
The Northern Ireland team themselves acknowledged the tough challenge ahead on social media, stating, "We face @Azzurri_En in our World Cup play-off semi-final".
Other soccer news includes Ian Wright commenting on Jude Bellingham, "Some people are not 'ready for a black superstar'". Wales is set to host Bosnia and Herzegovina in another World Cup qualifying play-off semi-final.
