Czech Republic 0 Northern Ireland 0: Michael O’Neill’s side secure battling qualification point in their opening group game
O’Neill’s summer heroes showed the same defensive quality and organisation to shut out the Czechs
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MICHAEL O’NEILL’S men secured a battling opening qualification point in Prague.
Northern Ireland reached the last 16 at the Euros after proving hard to beat in both qualifying and the finals.
And O’Neill’s summer heroes showed the same defensive quality and organisation to shut out the Czech Republic.
Filip Novak missed the best chance for the hosts when he slammed wide from only five yards out in the second half.
This was a qualifier low on goalmouth chances.
The Czechs had just one on target from 17 attempts.
At the other end, Sunderland’s Paddy McNair forced keeper Tomas Vaclik to save with his legs after fine work by Fleetwood full-back Conor McLaughlin.
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After securing a draw against the Czechs, O’Neill and Co will be out to boost their goal difference against Group C whipping boys San Marino at home next month.
And with world champions Germany expected to finish top, the Green and White Army would gladly take second spot and a shot at the play-offs.