Northern Ireland looks to revive their chances in Group B1 this week as they play host to side Norway in the UEFA Nations League. The match schedules for Wednesday at the Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo with kickoff at 9:45 pm.
Northern Ireland succumbed to a 1-0 defeat to Austria which saw the side fell to the bottom of the group. Norway took on a high note in the Group B1 after a thrilling 4-1 win over Romania on the same day.
Baraclough noted the sense of worry for his side, especially after letting a 1-0 defeat in their last outing. Their defeat at Windsor Park saw the side plummet to the bottom of their table with 600 support on looking.
Michael Gregoritsch scored the decisive goal before the mark of half time. Austria had several chances to widen the gap, but it ended with only one goal. Relegation into Group C is becoming a reality for Baraclough ahead of their Wednesday clash.
The Green and White Army recently won on a penalty shoot-out against Bosnia-Herzegovina. The win was important sealing them a Euro 2020 playoff against Slovakia next month.
Erlin Haaland continued his impressive goal-scoring form after netting a hat-trick against Romania in their 4-1 win last Sunday. The win puts the side at the top of the Group B1 with a win this Wednesday could hand the side a promotion.
Norway vs Northern Ireland Head to Head
Both sides have four games against each other in the past with Norway taking home three wins while Norway with only one win. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
Norway 4-0 Romania
Norway 1-2 Serbia
Northern Ireland 1-5 Norway
Norway 1-2 Austria
Malta 1-2 Norway
Away
Northern Ireland 0-1 Austria
Bosnia & Herzegovina 1-1 Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland 1-5 Norway
Romania 1-1 Northern Ireland
Norway Team News
Stefan Johansen recently picked up a knock during their clash against Serbia this missing their clash with Romania. Their backup goalkeeper Orjan Nyland also is out with an injury. Joshua King will be pushing for a recall into his side.
Northern Ireland Team News
There are no reported injury concerns for Baraclough’s side ahead of the clash. We could see the trio of Kyle Lafferty, Gavin Whyte and Jordan Jones make their way back into the starting XI this Wednesday.
Prediction and Odds
Norway is seeking their first UEFA Nations League win after eight attempts; thus we expect a straight win.
Norway Win
Goals Over 2.5
Haaland to Score
