Summary
Northern Ireland and Italy are set to face off in a World Cup play-off semi-final. Italy aims to avoid past upset defeats, while Northern Ireland seeks their first World Cup appearance in 40 years. Managers Gennaro Gattuso and Michael O'Neill prepare their teams for this significant match.
Key Facts
- Northern Ireland will play Italy in the World Cup play-off semi-final.
- The winner will face Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina for a spot in Group B.
- Italy has not qualified for the World Cup since 2014.
- Gennaro Gattuso is Italy's manager, replacing Luciano Spalletti.
- Michael O'Neill manages Northern Ireland, aiming for their first World Cup in 40 years.
- Italy's Gianluigi Buffon helped appoint Gattuso as the team's manager.
- O'Neill believes his young squad will play without fear in the upcoming match.
