"Three words will dominate the talk around international football across the island of Ireland in 2026 - the World Cup. Qualification for North America next summer and Brazil in 2027 will be the ultimate goal for Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland's men's and women's teams respectively over the course of the next 12 months, even if there is a sense the global showpieces could come just too soon for some. For others, 2026 could yet prove a defining year in their international careers."
"Pitched against Germany, Slovakia and Luxembourg in qualifying, Michael O'Neill's Northern Ireland side were always unlikely to take Group A's sole automatic place in the USA, Canada and Mexico. The expected straight shootout with Slovakia for the runners-up spot did not materialise thanks to Germany's surprise defeat in Bratislava, but by the time Northern Ireland travelled to Kosice in their penultimate match they were virtually assured of their play-off place anyway thanks to their Nations League C triumph in 2024."
Three words — World Cup — define the 2026 aims for teams across the island of Ireland. Qualification for North America in 2026 and Brazil in 2027 are the immediate objectives for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland's men's and women's teams respectively. Northern Ireland faced a tough Group A and relied on their 2024 Nations League C triumph to secure a play-off place despite a late defeat in Kosice that affected seeding and led to an away semi-final with Italy. Manager Michael O'Neill has blooded a young panel, with several players emerging, while the number nine position remains unresolved.
Read at www.bbc.com
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