Northern Ireland
Italy host Northern Ireland in World Cup play-off semi-final
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Italy face Northern Ireland in Bergamo on Thursday in a World Cup play-off semi-final, with the winners advancing to meet either Wales or Bosnia for a spot in the 2026 finals. The four-time champions are desperate to avoid missing a third consecutive tournament, while Northern Ireland aim to reach their first World Cup since 1986. Managers and players from both sides expressed determination amid high stakes.
Italy secured a 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland in Bergamo to advance to the World Cup playoff final. Sandro Tonali scored the opener with a superb half-volley, and Moise Kean added a late second goal. The Azzurri dominated after halftime against a resilient Northern Ireland side.
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Stuart Dallas, the retired Northern Ireland and Leeds United midfielder, is launching a new premium padel club in Leeds following his 2024 retirement due to injury. The eight-court facility in the Cross Green area represents his venture into the rapidly growing sport of padel. Dallas, who took up padel during recovery, aims to create a welcoming community hub.