The two countries were both unseeded for the draw in Zurich and Northern Ireland were paired with Switzerland while the Republic will face Denmark. The two-legged ties will take place between 9 and 14 November, with Northern Ireland at home in the opening leg, while the Republic will host Denmark in their return fixture. World Cup 2018 play-offs: how do you rate your team's chances? But the Northern Ireland manager, Michael O’Neill, revealed he was pleased to miss out on drawing either Italy or Croatia. Fixtures in fullFirst legs (7.45pm GMT)Thursday 9 November Croatia v Greece, Northern Ireland v SwitzerlandFriday 10 November Sweden v Italy (,Saturday 11 November Denmark v Republic of IrelandSecond leg (7.45pm GMT unless stated)Sunday 12 November Greece v Croatia Switzerland v Northern Ireland (5pm GMT)Monday 13 November Italy-Sweden (Tuesday 14 November Republic of Ireland-Denmark

Source: The Guardian October 17, 2017 12:33 UTC