The key talking points ahead of Northern Ireland’s clash with Bulgaria

Northern Ireland’s lack of goals was on stark display again in Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Belarus.

Northern Ireland continue their push for Nations League promotion when Bulgaria visit Windsor Park on Tuesday night.

Here, the PA news agency looks at the key talking points ahead of the game.

Taking chances

It is absolutely nothing new to talk about Northern Ireland’s lack of goals but the issue was on stark display again in Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Belarus, in which they dominated the first half and created chance after chance but came away empty-handed. Michael O’Neill went with Jamie Reid as his centre-forward and the Stevenage man got into several good positions, having a number of chances, but rust was showing after a blood clot delayed the start to his season and he was unable to convert. Lee Bonis made his debut off the bench but had limited time to make an impact. Will O’Neill change things up at Windsor?

Defensive solidity

Scotland v Northern Ireland – International Friendly – Hampden Park — Trai Hume impressed in defence as Northern Ireland kept another clean sheet on Saturday (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Making up for Plovdiv

O’Neill would not – as some of his players have done – use the word ‘revenge’ when discussing Tuesday’s rematch against Bulgaria, but there is definitely a desire to make up for a disappointing night in Plovdiv last month. A mistake from Bailey Peacock-Farrell ended up deciding a match as Northern Ireland were unable to capitalise on a much-improved second-half display to find an equaliser. Given how tight Group 3 is proving to be in League C, Northern Ireland need to make the most of another home game.

Pierce Charles to start again?

Northern Ireland v Ukraine – UEFA Euro U21 Championship Qualifying – Group F – Ballymena Showgrounds — Pierce Charles will hope to get the nod in goal again on Tuesday (Liam McBurney/PA)

Last home game of the year?

Northern Ireland v Kazakhstan – UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifying – Group H – National Football Stadium at Windsor Park — It remains to be seen whether Northern Ireland play Belarus at Windsor Park next month (Liam McBurney/PA)