At Tehelné pole on 14 November 2025, Slovakia host Northern Ireland in a qualifier that could have major implications for the battle for second place. The home side enter the match in strong form, while the visitors face a situation where defeat would all but end their World Cup hopes.
Slovakia Confident and Strong at Home
Slovakia’s campaign began with an impressive 2–0 home victory over Germany, a result that set the tone for their growing confidence. Although they later lost the reverse fixture in Belfast, they quickly reasserted control by defeating Luxembourg 2–0, maintaining their clean-sheet habit at home. Francesco Calzona’s side are now unbeaten in eight consecutive home matches, keeping seven clean sheets during that stretch. Their defensive structure and disciplined midfield have made Bratislava a difficult place for visiting teams, and Slovakia know that another win here would place them firmly on the path to qualification.
Northern Ireland Facing a Must-Win Situation
For Northern Ireland, the stakes could not be higher. Victory would pull them level on points with Slovakia and keep hopes alive ahead of a more favourable final match against Luxembourg. However, their away record raises doubts: just one win from their last eight away games underlines the team’s struggle to impose themselves outside Belfast. While they have already achieved a crucial win at home against Slovakia earlier in the campaign, replicating that performance on the road will demand both discipline and near-perfect execution.
Prediction: Slovakia to Win
Slovakia’s impressive home form, defensive solidity, and overall consistency give them a clear edge. Northern Ireland’s urgency may push them to take risks, but their away struggles remain a significant obstacle. The prediction is a win for Slovakia, further strengthening their position in the qualification race.
