The UEFA European Under-19 Championship reaches a critical juncture as Norway U19 face Northern Ireland U19 in a must-win Group A clash at Seaview Stadium in Belfast. With both sides sitting on one point after two matches, this encounter could determine which team keeps their hopes alive of reaching the knockout stages.
Lineups and Team News
Norway U19 are expected to make changes following their goalless draw against Ukraine. Head coach Luis Pimenta may recall striker Daniel Braut, younger brother of Erling Haaland, to provide an attacking spark. Midfielder Mats Pedersen is also pushing for a start after impressing off the bench last time out.
For Northern Ireland U19, manager Gareth McAuley faces some tough decisions. Teenage forward Braiden Graham could be handed his first start of the tournament as the hosts search for goals. Captain Gallagher Lennon will continue to marshal the defense, while goalkeeper Pierce Charles aims for a second clean sheet.
Possible lineups:
Norway U19: Bang-Kittilsen, Helland, Rosten, Granaas, Andresen, Holten, Borsheim, Pedersen, Hernes, Haram, Braut
Northern Ireland U19: Trickett, Lennon, Barr, Briggs, Stitt, Morrison, McClure, Thompson, Goodman, Graham.
Where to Watch
The match kicks off at 7:00 PM local time on Sunday, July 21. Fans in Norway can catch the action live on NRK, while Northern Irish viewers can tune in via BBC Sport NI’s online platforms.
Form Guide and Stats
Norway U19 enter this fixture on the back of a 2-1 loss to Italy and a 0-0 stalemate with Ukraine. Their attacking prowess has been lacking, having scored just once in 180 minutes of tournament football. However, they boast a strong qualifying record, netting 11 goals across three matches.
Northern Ireland U19 have shown resilience but struggle in front of goal. A 0-0 draw against Ukraine was followed by a 3-0 defeat to Italy. The hosts have failed to score in their last four competitive outings, a trend they’ll be desperate to overturn.
Head-to-Head
These sides last met in March 2023 during the qualifying phase, with Norway emerging 5-2 victors. That result extended Norway’s unbeaten run against Northern Ireland at U19 level to three matches.
Group A Standings
- Italy U19 – 6 points
- Ukraine U19 – 2 points
- Norway U19 – 1 point
- Northern Ireland U19 – 1 point
Latest News
Norway’s preparations have been hampered by the absence of top scorer Sindre Walle Egeli, who was not released by his club Nordsjaelland. For Northern Ireland, the focus has been on recovery and tactical adjustments following their heavy defeat to Italy.
Prediction
With both teams desperate for a win, this match promises to be a tense affair. Norway’s superior attacking talent gives them a slight edge, but home advantage could prove crucial for Northern Ireland.
A narrow 2-1 victory for Norway seems the most likely outcome. The Scandinavians should have enough quality to break down Northern Ireland’s stubborn defense, while the hosts may finally end their goal drought.
This encounter could ultimately decide which team joins Italy in advancing from Group A, adding extra spice to what is already a high-stakes clash in Belfast.
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