The Under-19 national team opened the tournament being held in Macedonia by earning a point after playing out a goalless draw with Northern Ireland in the first round. The side led by head coach Dimitar Kapinkovski put in a good performance and had the chance to celebrate a victory at the end.
“The Northern Ireland national team is a truly quality side with many very good individuals who play in the English Premier League. We played a combative and highly unpredictable match in which we had our moments and could have earned three points. It is always difficult to play the first match of any tournament, but the players gave their maximum and I am satisfied with what they showed,” said the head coach.
On Saturday, the national team faces a new and even bigger challenge: a meeting with the first favourites in the group, Switzerland, who defeated Malta 6:0 in the first round.
“Switzerland are the highest-ranked team in our group. We have no reason to give up in advance; these players are ready to compete and prove themselves, and I believe this side has the quality to play an even match against the favourites,” Kapinkovski concluded.
The match against Switzerland will be played in Turnovo, starting at 13:00, while our opponent in the final round of the tournament will be Malta. That match is scheduled for the 17th of this month and will also kick off at the same time.
