Georgia - Northern Ireland

Can Georgia leverage their technical attacking quartet to break down a resilient Northern Ireland side when they meet on 25 September 2026 at Boris Paichadze Dinamo Arena? The hosts are expected to deploy Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Georges Mikautadze, and Zuriko Davitashvili in an ambitious forward line, supported by a midfield trio of Giorgi Kochorashvili, Giorgi Chakvetadze, and Otar Kiteishvili. With Giorgi Gocholeishvili sidelined by injury, Lasha Dvali and Irakli Azarovi will be tasked with anchoring the defensive unit in front of goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili for this opening matchday fixture.

Northern Ireland travel to face a stern test, missing key personnel in Conor Bradley and Alistair McCann. Their expected XI features a compact defensive structure led by Trai Hume and Daniel Ballard, while Shea Charles and Ethan Galbraith look to control the tempo in the middle of the park. With Isaac Price and Jamie Donley expected to lead the line, the visitors will aim to disrupt Georgia's rhythm and establish a foothold in the group.