NI boss O'Neill senses 'big opportunity' against Italy

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill says Thursday's World Cup play-off in Italy is "a big opportunity and it's important we don't waste it". With 57 places between the sides in the world rankings, Italy will be favourites to win the semi-final in Bergamo. But the four-time World Cup winners have not qualified for the tournament since 2014.

Thursday's victors will then travel to either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina for a shot at joining Canada, Switzerland and Qatar in Group B at the finals. If Northern Ireland qualify, it would be a first World Cup appearance in 40 years. "The important thing for us is to play the game and not think about what's at stake," O'Neill said in his pre-match press conference on Wednesday evening.

"The expectation clearly lies with the home nation and the big nation, which is Italy. "We have to not be intimidated by the reputation of the players that they have, and I don't think we will be. "We have a lot of young players who are going on an upward trajectory in their careers, and tomorrow night is just another step.

" NI must take 'full advantage' of play-off - Magennis Northern Ireland deserve Italy's respect - Buffon 'We can match anyone at our best' - Galbraith In a squad update, O'Neill was "optimistic" Ali McCann would be fit for the game after the midfielder missed Preston's final match before the international window with an ankle injury. O'Neill added his young squad, the majority of who will be playing the biggest games of their careers against Gennaro Gattuso's side, will have "no fear", and said quotes from the Italian media have helped him get that message across. "It is important that we are aware of emotional side of the game for the opponent as well," he explained.