Northern Ireland vs Slovakia – Predicted lineup and team news | OneFootball

Northern Ireland and Slovakia are set to compete in a crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying match at Windsor Park this Friday evening.

Both teams aim to build on their strong starts in Group A. Slovakia currently top the group following their impressive upset against Germany. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland hold second place after a promising beginning to the qualifiers.

Northern Ireland vs Slovakia – Predicted lineup and team news

Northern Ireland Team News

Michael O’Neill is boosted by the return of several important players for this vital pair of matches. Veteran forward Josh Magennis is back in the squad for the first time since November 2024, bringing valuable experience and physical presence up front. The 35-year-old Exeter City striker has found the net four times in nine League One appearances this season, justifying his recall to enhance O’Neill’s attacking options.

Injury returns include Daniel Ballard, Conor Hazard, Brodie Spencer, Ciaron Brown, and Paul Smyth, all of whom strengthen the squad following a challenging September. Additionally, Rangers winger Ross McCausland has recovered from fitness setbacks and is currently gaining game time on loan at Cyprus’ Aris Limassol. However, Northern Ireland will be without their primary goalkeeper Pierce Charles, who is sidelined due to a shoulder injury.

At Windsor Park, Northern Ireland have shown formidable form, remaining unbeaten in their last seven home fixtures. This stronghold has seen them claim six wins and a draw, while maintaining clean sheets in seven of their previous ten matches on home soil.

Northern Ireland Predicted Lineup

Possible Northern Ireland starting XI: Peacock-Farrell; Hume, McNair, Ballard; Bradley, McCann, S. Charles, Devenny; Galbraith, Price; Reid.

When will the match kick off?

The match will kick off at 7:45pm BST on Friday 10th October.

How to Watch Northern Ireland vs Slovakia?

Supporters in the UK can catch the live action on BBC Two, BBC One Northern Ireland, BBC iPlayer, and via the BBC Sport website.

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