Northern Ireland

Overview

Northern Ireland have a proud footballing history that includes a legendary World Cup quarterfinal appearance in 1958 and qualification for Euro 2016, where they reached the round of 16. The Green and White Army, as their passionate supporters are known, create an atmosphere that belies the nation's small population of 1.9 million. Northern Ireland play a direct, physical style built on defensive organization and set-piece proficiency. Their squad is drawn primarily from the English Football League and Scottish Premiership, with a handful of Premier League players. Michael O'Neill's Euro 2016 campaign showed what Northern Ireland can achieve when belief and organization combine.

Key Players

World Cup History

Northern Ireland have appeared at three World Cups: 1958, 1982, and 1986. Their finest hour was in 1958 in Sweden, where they reached the quarterfinals with a squad that included the legendary George Best's predecessor, Peter McParland. In 1982, Gerry Armstrong's famous goal against Spain in Valencia delivered a famous group-stage victory. Northern Ireland have not appeared at a World Cup since 1986.