Northern Ireland host Slovakia in pivotal 2026 World Cup qualifier

Northern Ireland host Slovakia at Windsor Park in Belfast on Friday evening as both sides contest a pivotal 2026 World Cup qualifying match that could shape the outcome of Group A. Kickoff is at 19:45 BST, and Slovakia arrive top of the group on six points after two wins, while Northern Ireland sit second with three points from one win and one defeat.

Slovakia stunned Germany 2-0 in their opening fixture and followed that up with a 1-0 victory in Luxembourg courtesy of a 90th minute strike by Tomas Rigo. Northern Ireland began their campaign with a 3-1 win in Luxembourg but were beaten 3-1 by Germany in Cologne, leaving Michael ONeill's side knowing a positive result at home is crucial if they are to keep pace with the group leaders. First place secures automatic qualification to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, while second place would lead to a playoff route.

Northern Ireland have the boost of several players returning from injury for the Windsor Park doubleheader. Veteran forward Josh Magennis has been recalled to the squad for the first time since November 2024 after scoring four times in nine League One appearances this season. Defender Daniel...