Košice, Slovakia – slovakia hosts Northern Ireland tonight in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification Group A match, kicking off at 20:45 local time. A sold-out arena in Košice anticipates a high-energy atmosphere as both teams vie for vital points.
Slovakia’s coach, Francesco Calzona, announced several changes too the squad due to injury and suspension. Denis Vavro returns from injury, and Stanislav Lobotko (SSC Napoli) is expected to play. Though, Mário Sauer, Adrián Kaprálik, and Ľubomír Šatka are injured, and Ondrej Duda is sidelined due to a card penalty.
Northern Ireland’s coach, Michael O’Neill, is also facing absences, with Charles, McCann, and Ethan Galbraith unavailable due to injury and suspension, respectively. Currently in third place in the group, northern Ireland aims to secure points for a potential direct promotion or, more realistically, a playoff spot, following a recent 3-1 victory over Luxembourg.
The match began with both teams seeking an early advantage. as of the 5th minute, the score remains 0-0 despite minor technical issues with the internet connection. Northern Ireland has demonstrated surprisingly active play, aggressively challenging Slovakia’s passing game, creating difficulties for the home side. In the 9th minute, a deflection off Obert allowed Northern Ireland to establish themselves in the attacking half. A Price attempt on the run in the 14th minute was thwarted by a save from Milan Škriniar.Matúš Bero passed to Strelec in the 12th minute, but Ballard blocked the attempt. Dávid Ďuriš attempted a cross from the right in the 11th minute, which was deflected for a corner kick.
