Northern Ireland Opens Nations League Campaign with 2-0 Victory

Northern Ireland launched their Nations League campaign with a solid 2-0 win over Luxembourg at Windsor Park in Group C3.

Paddy McNair gave Northern Ireland the lead in the 11th minute, capitalizing on a corner to poke the ball home. Just five minutes later, Dan Ballard doubled their advantage by flicking in George Saville’s low free-kick.

Despite not adding to their score in the second half, Northern Ireland was rarely threatened by the visitors throughout the match. This victory marks Michael O’Neill’s first win in the Nations League and only Northern Ireland’s second victory in their last 17 matches in the competition.

With this win, O’Neill’s youthful squad continues to gain momentum during his second stint as manager. In their first home game since November’s victory over Denmark, the team performed well in front of a lively Windsor Park crowd.

Led by 22-year-old Sunderland defender Trai Hume, who captained his country for the first time after Jonny Evans’ retirement, Northern Ireland showed a bright start. Callum Marshall and Dion Charles missed chances from set plays before McNair exploited a corner, putting them in control.

Ballard’s goal quickly followed, demonstrating his knack for scoring from free-kicks, as he flicked Saville’s delivery into the net just like he had done against Spain in June.

Northern Ireland almost extended their lead before halftime, with Hume’s effort hitting the outside of the post, while Luxembourg’s best chance came in stoppage time when Leandro Barreiro shot over the bar.

The second half saw Northern Ireland create more opportunities, with Price missing a chance and Bradley volleying wide. Despite a late scare when there was a defensive mix-up, Northern Ireland managed to see out the match comfortably, securing their three points and a clean sheet.

Northern Ireland will look to build on this strong start when they travel to Bulgaria on Sunday, where Bulgaria were held to a goalless draw against Belarus after Filip Krastev was sent off.

Credit: BBC Sport