Italy and Northern Ireland Clash in Crucial World Cup Playoff
Bergamo, Italy – The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes a dramatic turn on Thursday, March 26, as Italy hosts Northern Ireland in a pivotal playoff match at the New Balance Arena. For Italy, this game represents a last chance to end a frustrating streak of World Cup absences, while Northern Ireland aims for a historic qualification to their first tournament since 1986. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. GMT (2:45 p.m. ET).
Italy’s Quest to Return to the World Stage
Italy has failed to qualify for the last two World Cups (2018, 2022), a period of significant disappointment for the nation’s football fans. Managed by Gennaro Gattuso, the Azzurri finished second in their qualifying group behind Norway, forcing them into this playoff route. The pressure is immense, especially after a heavy defeat in their last official match raised concerns about the team’s overall performance. ESPN reports that Gattuso has focused on uniting the group and ensuring player fitness.
Northern Ireland’s Uphill Battle
Northern Ireland enters the match hoping to pull off a major upset. They finished third in their qualifying group, behind Germany, and Slovakia. Despite being the least populous country to have qualified for multiple World Cups, Northern Ireland faces a significant challenge against a determined Italian side. beIN SPORTS highlights the team’s reliance on defensive structure and capitalizing on opponent errors.
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
- Time: 7:45 p.m. GMT (2:45 p.m. ET; 1:15 a.m. IST, Friday and 5:45 a.m. AEST, Friday)
- Venue: Stadio di Bergamo, Italy
- Referee: Danny Makkelie (Netherlands)
- VAR: Pol van Boekel (Netherlands)
Team Lineups (Probable)
Italy (3-5-2): Donnarumma; Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Politano, Barella, Locatelli, Tonali, Dimarco; Kean, Retegui.
Northern Ireland (3-5-2): Hazard; McNair, Brown, McConnell; Hume, Galbraith, Lyons, McDonnell, Lewis; Donley, Price.
Where to Watch
The match will be broadcast on BBC Three in the UK, Paramount in the U.S., SonyLIV in India, and Stan Sport in Australia. Live updates will similarly be available on ESPN. ESPN provides details on viewing options.
Previous Encounters
Italy and Northern Ireland have met 11 times previously, with Italy holding a dominant record of seven wins, three draws, and one defeat. However, the sole defeat for Italy came in 1958, a painful loss that dashed their World Cup hopes. A 0-0 draw in 2021 also proved costly, preventing Italy from topping their qualifying group and forcing them into the playoffs. ESPN details the history between the two sides.
Injury News
Italy: Federico Chiesa and Gianluca Scamacca are out due to discomfort and muscle injuries, respectively. Gianluca Mancini and Sandro Tonali are doubtful. ESPN reports on the Italian injury situation.
Northern Ireland: Alistair McCann is out with an ankle injury, while Dan Ballard (hamstring) and Conor Bradley (knee) are also unavailable.
Betting Odds (as of March 25, 2026)
Please note that odds are subject to change.
- Italy to Win: 1.28 (bet365)
- Draw: 5.50 (bet365)
- Northern Ireland to Win: 11.00 (bet365)
Under 2.5 Goals: 2.00 (Sisal)
Northern Ireland Under 0.5 Goals: 1.58 (GoldBet)
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