Northern Ireland's World Cup dreams were ended by Italy as Michael O'Neill's young side fell to a 2-0 qualifying play-off semi-final defeat in Bergamo. As expected, Italy were quick to put Northern Ireland under pressure. Pic: Ben McShane/SportsfileBut as the game settled down, Northern Ireland began to grow into it. Nevertheless a narrow, compact Northern Ireland were excelling at frustrating a nervous Italy side, who were struggling to carve out clear openings. Substitute Jamie Reid stabbed wide from a corner in stoppage time but Northern Ireland's chance had gone.

Source: Irish Examiner March 26, 2026 22:05 UTC