Preview: Russians poised to bounce back
As things stand in Group F, Russia are second with 12 points – one above Israel and two behind current leaders Portugal. However, the Russians have played a couple games less than the Euro 2012 semi-finalists. Grabbing maximum points from their two fixtures in hand would shoot them four points clear above the Portuguese.
Psychologically, Russia are fired up to bounce back from last time’s loss to Portugal. After failing to reach the 2010 FIFA World Cup and suffering a surprise group stage exit at the 2012 European Championship, Fabio Capello and his men have their eyes firmly set on reaching Brazil 2014. On paper, Russia have too much potential to allow themselves to drop further points tonight.
In contrast, Northern Ireland have not managed to win a single match in Group F. Their chances of turning the tables around tonight are slim as they occupy the fifth place in the six-team table. To make things more difficult for the hosts, Palermo’s Lafferty has been ruled out due to an Achilles injury. The Italian-based player is one of many key absentees on both sides.
Supporters of Israel’s national team and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal will be on their toes tonight. They will be hoping for an upset of the Russians by Northern Ireland.
How possible is that?
Where to watch the match – live stream, start time, TV channels
Watch Northern Ireland vs Russia live:
In Canada at 14:45 ET on Sportsnet Ontario / East / West / Pacific
In UK at 19:45 BST on Sky Go, Sky Sports 3/HD
In USA at 14:45 ET on ESPN Deportes+ por ESPN3, ESPN3
If you live in Russia, tune in to Channel One Russia. In the Middle East, watch this European World Cup qualifier on Al Jazeera Sport +3. For the full schedules, check out the match page.
