Northern Ireland return to League B of the Nations League for the first time since 2020, entering a campaign that represents a significant step up in quality. The build-up has been dominated by Arsenal forward Ceadach O'Neill's eligibility, with the 18-year-old's inclusion in manager Michael O'Neill's squad appearing to settle his international future with Northern Ireland despite overtures from the Republic of Ireland. The campaign will test the side's credentials against stronger opponents, including Georgia's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, whom O'Neill considers one of the world's best players.

Northern Ireland face four matches between 25 September and 5 October—Georgia (away), Hungary (home), Ukraine (away) and Georgia (home)—with manager O'Neill naming an expanded 28-man squad to cope with the demands. O'Neill has acknowledged the four-game window presents particular challenges for smaller nations, with injuries or suspensions carrying amplified consequences. A significant absence is Liverpool captain Conor Bradley, sidelined by knee surgery since January and expected to miss the entire campaign. Success in League B could yield tangible rewards: a top-two finish would secure Northern Ireland second-band seeding status for December's Euro 2028 qualifying draw.