After both nations saw their World Cup dreams end in play-off semi-final defeats, Wales and Northern Ireland meet in an international friendly in Cardiff. This fixture fulfills broadcast requirements, though neither side is particularly enthusiastic about it following their recent disappointments.
Match Details and Broadcast Information
Wales were beaten on penalties by Bosnia and Herzegovina, while Northern Ireland lost to Italy in Bergamo. The winners of those matches will contest a place at this summer's major tournament, leaving the losers to face off in this friendly encounter.
The last meeting between these two teams occurred a decade ago at Euro 2016, where Wales progressed past Northern Ireland on their memorable run to the semi-finals.
When is Wales vs Northern Ireland?
The match is scheduled to kick off at 7.45pm BST on Tuesday 31 March at the Cardiff City Stadium.
How to Watch the Match
Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch the game live on BBC Three, with coverage beginning at 7.30pm BST. A live stream will be available via the BBC iPlayer platform for those preferring to watch online.
Team News and Possible Line-ups
Both managers are expected to use this friendly as an opportunity to give playing time to promising youngsters, with several changes likely from their previous competitive fixtures.
Wales Team News
Wales manager Craig Bellamy may hand opportunities to players of promise such as Ronan Kpakio and Lewis Koumas. Defender Dylan Lawlor impressed in the defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina and could retain his place in the back line.
Northern Ireland Team News
Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill named a youthful side against Italy, with Paddy McNair as the only starter over 24 years old. He may look to youth again, with teenage Liverpool winger Kieran Morrison and Blackburn defender Tom Atcheson potentially in line for debuts.
McNair, Ruairi McConville, Bailey Peacock-Farrell, and Ali McCann have all departed the squad ahead of this friendly fixture.
Possible Starting Line-ups
Wales XI: Darlow; Kpakio, Lawlor, Rodon, Williams; Amapdu, Cullen; Wilson, J Colwill, Koumas; Johnson.
Northern Ireland XI: P Charles; Hume, Atcheson, Toal; Devlin, S Charles, McDonnell, Spencer; Morrison, Magennis, Price.
This friendly represents a chance for both nations to rebuild after World Cup disappointment, with focus shifting to developing younger talent for future campaigns.
