Northern Ireland head coach Michael O’Neill spoke to BBC Sport following his team’s commanding 3-0 victory over Ukraine in the UEFA Nations League. The Irish side managed to keep a clean sheet while scoring three unanswered goals.
“We faced a very strong team and needed to be thoroughly prepared. My squad delivered on that, from detailed analysis to set-piece execution and everything in between.
Everything fell perfectly into place: we scored from a set-piece early on, and the second goal was simply outstanding. Maintaining discipline was crucial, and securing another clean sheet required a collective team effort with everyone performing at their best.
Two goals from Ciaron Brown? Although he plays in England’s League One, he showed he is capable of much more. He contributes immensely to our team.
As for the performances of Tom Atcheson and Ruairi McConville, honestly, they have no ceiling. Both currently compete in the Championship but are ready to step up to the next level. They will make mistakes at times, given the heavy physical demands we’ve placed on them. Against Ukraine, they both shone brilliantly,” the Northern Ireland manager commented.
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