Don't Miss Italy vs. Northern Ireland: Your Complete Guide to Watching Live on TV and Stream

Italy stands just two victories away from securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup and must overcome Northern Ireland in Thursday's playoff semifinal to avoid an unprecedented third consecutive tournament absence.

The Azzurri fell short of automatic qualification through the group stage and now find themselves relying on the playoff route. Their single-leg semifinal against Northern Ireland in Bergamo could be followed by a clash with either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina if they advance.

Italy would become the first reigning world champions to miss three consecutive World Cups should they falter in the playoffs, yet they remain the heavy favorite against Northern Ireland. Nevertheless, having suffered painful exits at this stage before, they will be taking Michael O'Neill's side very seriously.

Northern Ireland has been absent from the tournament since 1986 and will need an extraordinary performance to punch their ticket to North America this summer.

What Time Does Italy vs. Northern Ireland Kick Off?

How to Watch Italy vs. Northern Ireland on TV, Live Stream

Viewers in Northern Ireland and across the United Kingdom can tune in to the BBC for this pivotal match, with the iPlayer and BBC Sport Website also providing live streaming of the action from Bergamo.

In the United States, Peacock, ViX, and fuboTV hold broadcasting rights, while Canadian viewers can watch via fuboTV, DAZN, TLN, and VIVA.

Sky Sports will be broadcasting the game for audiences in Mexico.

When Is the World Cup UEFA 'Path A' Playoff Final?

Whether Italy or Northern Ireland advances to the UEFA Path A playoff final is yet to be determined, but the match against either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina is confirmed for Tuesday, March 31 regardless of who makes it through.

Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina will serve as hosts for the final, with the venue being either Cardiff or Zenica.