"We have to believe, because if we don't believe, no-one else will, and that's how we have to approach the game."
"I've always said to the players, don't waste the opportunity. Every time you step on the pitch as an international player, you never know when it will be your last opportunity."
"While it was probably the toughest draw we could have got and it is a massive challenge for us, we have to embrace it."
"Italy have all the pressure but I expect them to be fully prepared for what we have to offer."
Northern Ireland prepares for a World Cup play-off against Italy, acknowledging the difficulty of winning in Italy. Coach Michael O'Neill stresses the importance of players embracing every opportunity on the pitch. A victory would lead to another match against either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina, with a chance to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 40 years. O'Neill recognizes the challenge but believes his young team will rise to the occasion, while Italy carries the pressure of expectation.
Read at www.bbc.com
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