NorthernIreland

Lacklustre Northern Ireland lose to Finland in blow to Euro 2024 hopes

26-Mar-2023 21:19:32 | Guardian

Northern Ireland could not produce a performance to match the occasion as Michael O’Neill’s first home game back at Windsor Park ended in a 1-0 defeat by Finland. After the 2-0 win against San Marino on Thursday, this was a more sobering night against stronger opposition, and a result that deals a significant blow to hopes of reaching Euro 2024 even at this early stage of the campaign.

Northern Ireland appeared off the pace before Benjamin Källman fired Finland in front with 28 minutes gone and, although the hosts improved while chasing the game, they could not find an equaliser. Dion Charles had a 62nd-minute goal ruled out for handball.