In this video
- Northern Ireland's coach said he felt they were well in the game at 60 to 65 minutes. There is a lot to be positive about, but he thinks the overriding emotion is disappointment.
- Asked about the early goal, he said it was always the fear, and they needed to deal with the ball better in midfield. The second was a little fortuitous, but again they should have defended it better.
“It's not a free kick at all.”
- He called Isaac Price's strike a great finish from a player who worked very hard. They felt they could be a threat at set pieces, but were without Daniel Ballard and Brody Spencer, both threats in the box.
- Asked what he takes from the hardest game on paper, he said he thinks they know they can compete, the most important thing. They brought on two 20-year-olds and a 19-year-old, and take belief into October.
- He had said three points would make a good trip and more a great one, and they probably felt on the verge of a great trip. Germany's coach could make five changes, a luxury Northern Ireland do not have.
- Asked about the belief shown, he said football is all about levels, and three starters play in League One. Handling players from top clubs helps them grow, and he hopes it gives the younger players belief.
- Asked if the window showed depth, he said he is not sure, as they are bringing on players who are not starters for their clubs. At times they are asking boys to do a man's job, and they need a bit of help.
Northern Ireland coach reacts to the Florian Wirtz free kick in Germany vs Northern Ireland FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
Germany vs Northern full post-match breakdown from Matchday 6.
In this press conference, the Northern Ireland coach Michael O’Neill explains the 15-minute phase plan, why game management mattered late on in Germany vs Northern Ireland, and his view on the decision that led to the Florian Wirtz free kick.
