Will Lapoukhov help avoid defeat again? The Belarusian national team has another test of Northern Ireland
A masterful display from goalkeeper Denis Lapoukhov saved the Belarusian national team from defeat at Windsor Park back in September.
The two sides meet again at the Borisov Arena on Tuesday and Belarus will be looking to Lapoukhov for another inspired performance.
Northern Ireland are a dangerous side, as they showed in their 2-1 win over Greece in October. They also held Italy to a 0-0 draw in September.
However, Belarus have a good record against Northern Ireland, winning two of their three previous meetings. They will also be buoyed by the return of some key players, including Sergei Kislyak and Pavel Nekhaychik.
Lapoukhov is confident that Belarus can get a positive result on Tuesday. He said: "We know that Northern Ireland are a good team, but we are also a good team. We have a good record against them and we are playing at home. We will be looking to get a win."
Here is a preview of the match:
- The match will be played at the Borisov Arena in Belarus.
- The match will start at 19:45 CET.
- Belarus are the favorites to win the match.
- Northern Ireland will be looking to cause an upset.
Here are some key players to watch:
- Denis Lapoukhov (Belarus)
- Sergei Kislyak (Belarus)
- Pavel Nekhaychik (Belarus)
- Josh Magennis (Northern Ireland)
- Stuart Dallas (Northern Ireland)
Here are some predictions for the match:
- Belarus to win 2-0.
- Northern Ireland to score a consolation goal.
- Denis Lapoukhov to be named man of the match.
Conclusion
The match between Belarus and Northern Ireland is sure to be an exciting one. Both teams have a lot to play for and will be looking to get a positive result.
Belarus will be looking to build on their good record against Northern Ireland, while Northern Ireland will be looking to cause an upset.
It is a match that could have a big impact on the qualifying group, so it is one that should not be missed.
