Price fires NI to narrow win over Iceland
Northern Ireland secured a hard-fought 1-0 friendly victory against Iceland despite playing with 10 men for over 30 minutes. The match saw key moments that tested both teams' resilience and tactical adaptability.
Key Match Highlights
- Isaac Price's 36th-minute strike proved decisive
- Brodie Spencer's 57th-minute red card forced Northern Ireland to defend deep
- Multiple crucial saves from goalkeeper Pierce Charles preserved the lead
- The victory provides momentum ahead of World Cup qualifiers
Match Breakdown
The hosts took control when Isaac Price scored his ninth international goal, curling a low shot into the bottom corner after Conor Bradley's positional switch sparked Northern Ireland's attack. The West Brom midfielder now shares the same goal tally as Northern Irish legends George Best and Norman Whiteside.
Defender Brodie Spencer received a straight red card in the 57th minute for pulling back Hakon Arnar Haraldsson as the last defender, forcing Northern Ireland into a defensive reshuffle.
Defensive Heroics
Despite being a man down, Northern Ireland's defense stood firm with:
- Price clearing Andri Gudjohnsen's header off the line
- Goalkeeper Pierce Charles making a spectacular late save against Isak Bergmann Johannesson
- Dan Ballard and Ethan Galbraith making crucial interventions
Looking Ahead
Manager Michael O'Neill will be pleased with his team's resilience as they prepare for their first 2026 World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg in September. This victory provides valuable momentum after their recent 2-1 defeat to Denmark.
The match intensity exceeded typical friendly standards, with both teams showing competitive spirit throughout. Northern Ireland's determined performance suggests positive signs for their upcoming competitive fixtures.