2018 FIFA World Cup: European Play-off Predictions

#3 Northern Ireland vs Switzerland

Switzerland vs Northern Ireland : A double-edged sword

One might bet their bottom dollar on Switzerland in this one, given their exceptional run of form in the first nine games of the qualifiers. The Rossocrociati were flying, surpassing every stumbling block on their way, until they met a slightly superior Portugal outfit on the final matchday and fell into the play-off spots.

It was devastating for Vladimir Petkovic's side but all is not lost just yet for the Swiss who now have to triumph in a double-legged affair with Northern Ireland to ensure qualification. Their opponents will pose no easy encounter however, after they impressed in a group comprised of both Germany and Czech Republic.

Switzerland and Northern Ireland are relatively unfamiliar to each other, having played on only four occasions previously, the last of which came way back in 2004. However, both sides have shown valiant spirit in the qualifiers, meaning the tie will likely be a tightly-contested, yet exciting one.

Verdict - Northern Ireland may cause a few issues for Petkovic and co. in the first leg when they at home, but Switzerland have the might to shrug it all off in the return.

Predicted score: Northern Ireland 1-3 Switzerland (on aggregate)

Key players: Northern Ireland - Kyle Lafferty, Steven Davis; Switzerland - Xherdan Shaqiri, Granit Xhaka