Brodie Spencer stated that Northern Ireland's squad embrace their status as outsiders for the upcoming World Cup play-off semi-final. The fixture takes place in Bergamo on Thursday evening. Michael O'Neill's side qualified for the play-offs following a second-place finish in their Nations League group, according to Sky Sports.
Spencer believes the pressure remains on the Italian side during the knockout encounter. The Huddersfield Town defender noted that Northern Ireland often produce their best performances when expectations are low, per the Belfast Telegraph. Italy enter the match as European heavyweights, but Spencer suggested the Northern Ireland players remain confident in their tactical organisation.
Northern Ireland travel to Italy seeking a place in the play-off final. If they succeed in Bergamo, they will move one step closer to their first World Cup finals appearance since 1986. The squad arrived in Italy over the weekend to begin final preparations for the match, according to the Irish FA.
