Northern Ireland: Captain Hume happy with Nations League start with victory

Captain Trai Hume felt Northern Ireland should have won with confidence after beating Luxembourg 2-0 at Windsor Park in the opening game of their 2024 Nations League campaign.

The home side won for the second time in 17 league games thanks to early goals from Paddy McNair and Dan Ballard.

Although they had a few more chances to increase the score, they failed to score after 16 minutes.

“I thought we started the game well,” said the Sunderland defender, who wore the captain’s armband in the first match since Jonny Evans’ international retirement.

“Being 2-0 up after 15 minutes put us in a good position for the rest of the game. We created a lot of chances and probably could have scored more if we’re honest.

“We could have handled the game better, but it’s nice that we go home with the three points.”

Northern Ireland’s players now turn their attention to the second leg of this Nations League double header on Sunday, away to Bulgaria.

After Bulgaria drew 0-0 with Belarus in the season opener, a positive result for Northern Ireland in Plovdiv would mean Michael O’Neill’s team would take control of the group in the early stages.

“We’re looking forward to it,” Hume added.

“It’s going to be a long flight and it’s going to be hot, but we’re ready.”