Republic of Ireland host North Macedonia in an international friendly following their exits from 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Play-Offs.
Ireland come into this friendly off the back of a tough penalty shootout loss away to Czech Republic after a 2-2 draw, whilst North Macedonia got thrashed by Denmark.
Team News
Sammie Szmodics is the only player ruled out for Ireland after he suffered a head injury during their World Cup Qualifying Play-Off semi-final loss to Czech Republic.
North Macedonia have no fresh injury concerns to report after their 4-0 defeat away to Denmark in Copenhagen.
When is Kick-Off?
Ireland host North Macedonia at Aviva Stadium, Dublin, on Tuesday 31 March at 7:45pm BST, live on Amazon Prime Video in the UK.
Stat Attack
- Ireland have lost one of their last six meetings against North Macedonia (W4, D1, L1).
- North Macedonia have lost all three previous away visits to Ireland (L3).
- This is Ireland’s first friendly meeting against North Macedonia.
- Troy Parrott has scored six goals in Ireland’s last three matches (W2, D1).
- North Macedonia have conceded 11 goals and scored once in their last two matches (L2).
Prediction
Although they threw away a 2-0 lead against Czech Republic before they eventually lost on penalties, Ireland can take heart from a positive attacking display and it’s now about building momentum for their UEFA Nations League’s campaign in the autumn.
North Macedonia meanwhile were absolutely outplayed by Denmark with none of their three shots on target so a huge improvement is imperative, but they also have to overcome their poor away record against the Irish if want to find fresh confidence.
I however do think that Ireland will have enough quality and motivation from their defeat to Czech Republic to get them over the line in this friendly.
Prediction: ROI 2-1 North Macedonia