On Saturday, October 12, 2024, Belarus and Northern Ireland go head-to-head in a crucial UEFA Nations League match. The game, scheduled to kick off at 7:45 PM, will be held at the ZTE Arena in Zalaegerszeg, Hungary. This encounter is part of Group C3 and could significantly impact the standings in the group.
Both teams have shown strong defensive performances in recent matches. Belarus, with only one goal in their last six international games, and Northern Ireland, who have struggled to score away from home, suggest that goals might be scarce. The last time these teams met in European Championship qualifying in 2019, Northern Ireland won both matches, but with narrow margins, highlighting the defensive solidity of both sides.
Belarus will be without Dinamo Minsk forward Ivan Bakhar due to injury, while Northern Ireland will miss goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell and defender Daniel Ballard. However, Northern Ireland welcomes back Jamie Reid after he missed the last international break. New call-ups include Lee Bonis and Kofi Balmer for Northern Ireland.
The odds favor a low-scoring game, with under 1.5 goals predicted by many analysts. The match can be watched live on Viaplay International YouTube, and fans can also follow live coverage and updates on ESPN.
Northern Ireland’s recent form has seen them win their Nations League opener 2-0 against Luxembourg but struggle on the road, failing to score more than once in their last six away matches. Belarus, on the other hand, has kept clean sheets in several recent matches, including a goalless draw against Bulgaria.
This match is crucial for both teams as they vie for top spots in the group. The defensive strengths of both Belarus and Northern Ireland make it a likely candidate for a tight, low-scoring contest.
