Northern Ireland v Norway Official Match Programme

“With a bit of luck it might come down to ourselves and the Czech Republic. The Czechs still have to come to Belfast in September so it could be a very exciting run-in. “If we perform the way we have been doing during the last two and a half years I firmly believe we have a chance to get to the play-offs at least. “It was a fantastic experience playing at the Euros in France and there's a determination in the squad to reach another major tournament.” While Northern Ireland are unbeaten in their last seven qualifiers at home, Ward is taking nothing for granted against a Norway side seeking a revival under new boss Lars Lagerback. The wily Swede, who led Iceland to the last eight of Euro 2016, was appointed at the start of last

With Azerbaijan facing Germany and the Czech Republic travelling to San Marino today, a clearer picture is likely to emerge heading into the second half of the campaign. And while the Germans are nailed-on favourites to win the pool, Ward is confident Northern Ireland can secure second place and seal a potential play-off route to Russia. He said: “You have to expect everyone in the group is going to lose to Germany so it's about taking points off those teams you're going to be in a battle with for second. “At the moment it looks like it's going to be us, the Czech Republic and Norway fighting for that runners-up spot so it's important we pick up points against those teams.

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