What happened: Northern Ireland lost 2-0 to Italy in the World Cup play-off semi-final. Manager Michael O'Neill remains positive about the team's future.
Why it matters:
- Northern Ireland misses a chance to qualify for the World Cup.
- The team's development and prospects remain hopeful under O'Neill's leadership.
MNN Take: Despite the defeat, O'Neill's confidence suggests ongoing commitment to building the team's strength for future competitions.
Sources: BBC Sport