Northern Ireland striker Josh Magennis said that Thursday's play-off semi-final against Italy is "a night we are going to remember for the rest of our lives". Michael O'Neill's side are aiming to beat Italy and progress to the play-off final against either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina - a chance to reach their first World Cup in 40 years. Magennis is no stranger to big matches in a Northern Ireland shirt and is one of just two players who remain in the squad who played in the 2016 European Championship in France. "When you have the opportunity to play and wear the green and white jersey, you take full advantage of it," Magennis told BBC Sport NI. "It is a night we are going to remember for the rest of our lives, whether we make it or not.

Source: BBC March 25, 2026 20:27 UTC