The UEFA Nations League returns with an intriguing clash between Northern Ireland and Luxembourg.
Both teams are looking to start their campaign on a strong note, with Northern Ireland aiming to build on their recent positive performances, while Luxembourg will be seeking to bounce back from a series of disappointing results.
Match Preview
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland Recent Form
Northern Ireland comes into this match with a mixed bag of results but has shown signs of improvement. They ended their EURO 2024 qualifying campaign on a high note with a 2-0 victory against Denmark. In their last five matches across all competitions, they have only suffered one defeat—a heavy 5-1 loss to Spain. However, they also managed to secure a notable 1-0 victory against Scotland and a 2-0 win over Andorra in their most recent outings. This positive momentum will be something they hope to continue in their UEFA Nations League opener.
Northern Ireland Injury News
Northern Ireland will be without Stevenage striker Jamie Reid due to injury, and St Mirren winger Conor McMenamin is also nursing a knock. On the positive side, George Saville from Millwall and Paddy McNair, a former Manchester United player, have been recalled to the squad after missing the June international break. Shayne Lavery, who recently joined Cambridge United, has also been called up. Birmingham's Bailey Peacock-Farrell is set to start in goal.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg Recent Form
Luxembourg enters the match following a tough stretch. Despite a surprising bronze medal finish in their EURO 2024 qualifying group, they have struggled since then, losing three of their last four matches across all competitions. Their most recent defeat was a 3-0 loss to Belgium, and they also suffered a 2-0 defeat against Georgia in March, signalling a downturn in form. Luxembourg has historically struggled against Northern Ireland, losing their last encounter 3-1 in March 2022.
Luxembourg Injury News
Luxembourg faces several absences for this match. Olivier Thill has been unexpectedly omitted from the squad, while key players Danel Sinani (St. Pauli) and Maxime Chanot (Los Angeles FC) are suspended. Additionally, Yvandro Borges Sanches from Borussia Monchengladbach remains sidelined with a long-term injury. However, young talent Christophe Brites, who recently played for the U17 squad, has been called up to bolster the team.
Players To Watch
Northern Ireland Player To Watch
Paddy McNair: The versatile midfielder has experience playing in multiple positions and will be crucial in both defense and midfield. His ability to control the game and contribute defensively makes him a key player for Northern Ireland in this match.
Luxembourg Player To Watch
Gerson Rodrigues: Known for his speed and attacking prowess, Rodrigues will be essential to Luxembourg’s attacking efforts. His ability to create chances and score goals will be critical if Luxembourg is to upset Northern Ireland.
Prediction
Given Northern Ireland's recent positive form, especially at home, they are favourites to win this match. Luxembourg’s recent struggles and key absences make it difficult to see them pulling off an upset.
Northern Ireland's solid defensive performances and Luxembourg's lack of firepower, especially with several key players missing, suggest a home win.
Our Prediction: Northern Ireland 2 - 0 Luxembourg
North. Ireland 
Luxembourg 
