Northern Ireland are set to challenge Slovakia on their turf in a vital World Cup qualifying match this Friday.
Both teams are still firmly in the race for automatic qualification to the FIFA World Cup 2026, making this Group A clash at the Košická futbalová aréna in Košice a potentially pivotal game in their campaign.
Northern Ireland XI vs Slovakia – Predicted lineup and team news
Northern Ireland team news
The visitors face a number of injury setbacks ahead of this crucial away fixture. Their first-choice goalkeeper, Pierce Charles, remains sidelined due to a shoulder injury. Alongside him, Shea Charles has been ruled out with a hamstring issue, while Ali McCann, a regular in midfield, is recovering from a fractured arm.
Adding to Northern Ireland’s challenges, Ethan Galbraith will miss this game due to a suspension following a booking in the last match. However, Conor Bradley returns after serving his ban. The Liverpool defender, fresh off a Premier League title-winning season, is crucial both defensively and offensively for Northern Ireland.
Between the sticks, goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell is expected to keep his place, supported by a consistent three-man defence. Midfielder Isaac Price, who has impressed consistently, will also be key to Northern Ireland’s hopes in this important qualifier.
Northern Ireland predicted lineup
Possible Northern Ireland starting XI: Peacock-Farrell; Hume, Ballard, McNair; Bradley, Price, Saville, Devenny, Lewis; Marshall, Reid.
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 7:45pm BST on Friday, 14th November.
How to watch Slovakia vs Northern Ireland?
Supporters in the UK can watch the match live on BBC’s range of platforms. This includes BBC Three, BBC Two Northern Ireland, BBC One Northern Ireland, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website and app.
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