Northern Ireland XI vs Georgia – Predicted lineup and team news

Northern Ireland are ready to kick off their UEFA Nations League Group B journey with an away fixture against Georgia on Friday at the Boris Paichadze Dinamo Arena.

Michael O’Neill’s side arrive in Tbilisi carrying mixed results as they step into a fresh international cycle. Their most recent outing in June 2026 saw them fall 3-1 to France, a heavy but understandable loss against one of Europe’s elite. Earlier that same month, though, they bounced back with a solid 1-0 victory over Guinea, showing they can grind out results. Before that, they held Wales to a 1-1 draw in the spring, but then slipped to a 2-0 defeat against Italy in a tight playoff encounter.

Northern Ireland team news

The biggest absence is captain and Liverpool defender Conor Bradley, who is definitely out because of a knee problem.

The midfield has also taken serious hits. Alistair McCann is unavailable due to a hamstring injury, while both Brad Lyons and Jamie McDonnell have withdrawn from this international window with knee issues. McDonnell, in particular, pulled out after picking up a hamstring blow at club level and will stay with Oxford United for rehabilitation.

To help offset these defensive setbacks, there is positive news at the back: Dan Ballard is expected to return to the starting XI, likely pushing Ruairi McConville out of the side. In central midfield, Paddy McNair and Ethan Galbraith are competing for the remaining spot, with both pushing hard to earn O’Neill’s trust.

Northern Ireland predicted lineup

Possible Northern Ireland starting XI: P. Charles; Hume, McConville, Ballard; Spencer, S. Charles, Galbraith, Devenny; Kelly, Price; Donley.

When will the match kick off?

The match will kick off at 5pm BST on Friday, 25th September.

How to watch Georgia vs Northern Ireland?

For viewers in the United Kingdom, the Georgia vs Northern Ireland match will be shown live and free of charge on the BBC. Coverage is scheduled across BBC Two, BBC Two Northern Ireland, and via streaming on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website.

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