World Cup play-offs: Northern Ireland vs. Switzerland and Republic vs. Denmark

The Republic of Ireland will face Denmark in the qualification play-offs for the 2018 World Cup, with Northern Ireland paired with Switzerland.

Croatia will take on Greece following today’s draw for the European play-offs - which was streamed live on Fifa.com, Facebook and YouTube - and Sweden take on Italy, the four-time World Cup winners.

Northern Ireland host the Swiss in Belfast in the first game, while the Republic travel to Denmark. The first legs will be played between 9 and 11 November, with the return fixtures taking place between 12 and 14 November.

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In full: World Cup play-off draw

• Northern Ireland vs. Switzerland
• Denmark vs. Republic of Ireland
• Croatia vs. Greece
• Sweden vs. Italy

Manager reaction to the draw

Northern Ireland vs. Switzerland

• Michael O’Neill, Northern Ireland: “We knew it was going to be difficult. They’ve had a good campaign, but we have a big opportunity to get to Russia. We know we’ll have to be at our best but we believe we’re good enough to do that. The most important thing is we don’t concede an away goal. We’ll be prepared for Belfast. We’ve only lost one game there in four years.”

Denmark vs. Republic of Ireland

• Martin O’Neill, Republic of Ireland: “Naturally, we’re just pleased to be in the draw. Being unseeded means it was always going to be a difficult tie. I know the Denmark manager, we used to play together. It will be an interesting confrontation. We have momentum and that’s important. We won the last two games to get here. I’m now concerned with the next couple of weeks and making sure my players don’t get injuries at club level.”

Croatia vs. Greece

• Michael Skibbe, Greece: “We are happy to reach these matches. Now we are looking to Croatia. They are a tough team who are doing well. They are offensive but we are good defensively.”
• Zlatko Dalic, Croatia: “I have a big respect for [the] opponent. It will be a difficult job. I trust my team and I hope we do a good job. We have enough time to prepare. I hope everyone will be ready and healthy. It’s a big game but I’m optimistic. For me, I have the best team. Now we can fight for the World Cup.”

Sweden vs. Italy

• Janne Andersson, Sweden: “It’s two tough games but it would have been the same with other countries. I’m happy we know now. Now we can start work. I haven’t thought so much about Italy. I haven’t put too much energy into it. Their history is good, they’ve got good experience. We will go for it.”