Home / Sports / McNair: Italy 'were there for the taking'
McNair: Italy 'were there for the taking'
27 Mar
Summary
- Paddy McNair felt Italy were vulnerable during the World Cup qualifier.
- Northern Ireland fielded a very young squad with an average age of 22.5.
- The team looks forward to a bright future and learning from the loss.
Paddy McNair, a defender for Northern Ireland, expressed his belief that the Italian team was vulnerable during their World Cup semi-final play-off match. The game, which concluded with a 2-0 loss for Northern Ireland in Bergamo, saw Italy secure their spot in the play-off final. McNair stated, "It is frustrating, I feel like they were there for the taking." He noted that while Italy is a significant footballing nation, their current level might not match past glories.
The Northern Ireland squad fielded was notably young, with an average age of 22.5 years, making it the second youngest average since World War Two. Key players were absent due to injury, including Conor Bradley, Dan Ballard, and Ali McCann. McNair, the sole player with experience from Northern Ireland's last major tournament in 2016, acknowledged the team's struggle to create chances and the impact of Italy's goals.
Despite the defeat ending Northern Ireland's World Cup aspirations for the first time in 40 years, McNair remains optimistic about the team's prospects. He highlighted the talent and depth within the squad, anticipating a bright future for Northern Irish football. The team aims to build on this experience, with a friendly against Wales scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, serving as a next step.
