Bet Slip

Italy vs Northern Ireland: 20/1 Bet Builder Tip 26/03/2026

fa logo
Published 25 Mar 2026, 09:16| Updated at 25 Mar 2026, 09:55

Italy vs Northern Ireland: 20/1 Bet Builder Tip

Northern Ireland's quest to reach their first World Cup since 1986 takes them to Bergamo, as they face a difficult challenge away from home against four-time World Champions, Italy.

Italy finished second in their qualifying group behind eventual winners Norway, whereas Northern Ireland were awarded a playoff spot with their performance in the UEFA Nations League.

Michael O'Neill's side will most certainly be underdogs for this fixture, given how this is only a one-legged playoff, and they will be without Conor Bradley of Liverpool for this fixture.

Ahead of this fixture, we have picked out a 20/1 Bet Builder tip, as Northern Ireland are set for a difficult night on Thursday.

home Team badge

Italy

2
away Team badge

Northern Ireland

0

Bet Builder Selections

  • Match Result - Italy
  • Anytime Goalscorer - Moise Kean
  • Player 1+ Assists - Federico Dimarco
  • Player 2+ Fouls - George Saville
  • Player To Be Carded - Shea Charles

Bet Builder Reasoning

Match Result - Italy

The Italians have home advantage in this tie, which they'll feel is significant. Despite coming second to Norway in the group stage, their form heading into this one is decent on whole, with six wins from their last seven outings. Northern Ireland's away form is concerning, with Michael O'Neill's side losing four of their last five games on the road, winning only one of their last nine.

Anytime Goalscorer - Moise Kean

Moise Kean was in fine form for Italy in qualifying, with the Fiorentina striker scoring four goals in three matches. Kean was a frequent shot taker in qualifying, with the former Everton striker averaging 3.7 shots per game and finding the target with two shots per match.

Player 1+ Assists - Federico Dimarco

Federico Dimarco's ability down the left-hand side will undoubtedly cause problems for Northern Ireland. The Inter Milan full-back was in great creative form for the Italian national team during qualifying, providing four assists and creating five big chances.

Player 2+ Fouls - George Saville

George Saville is set to start in midfield for Northern Ireland. The Luton Town midfielder missed the last qualifying game for Northern Ireland due to suspension. Saville received two yellow cards, while averaging 1.3 fouls per game during Northern Ireland's qualifying campaign.

Player To Be Carded - Shea Charles

Shea Charles received one yellow card in qualifying for Northern Ireland and the Southampton midfielder committed 1.8 fouls per game. For his club side, Charles has received five yellow cards in the Championship and committed 1.1 fouls per game.

Find More Predictions & Tips Here