Northern Ireland secured a 1-0 victory over Luxembourg in World Cup qualifying, with the hosts' defensive setup proving decisive despite a competitive encounter. Playing in a 3-4-3 formation, Northern Ireland controlled the match's quality, generating 1.34 expected goals from nine shots, of which three found the target. Luxembourg, deployed in a 4-2-3-1 shape, offered genuine attacking threat with 12 shots and 3 on target, but their 0.55 xG illustrated their inability to create clear-cut opportunities. The visitors' goalkeeper was exceptional, recording a 100 per cent save percentage and maintaining his clean sheet. Northern Ireland's narrow victory reflects their superior efficiency in open play, though Luxembourg's shot volume suggested they competed well in the second half. Referee Kristo Tohver managed the match without notable incident. This result strengthens Northern Ireland's qualifying campaign momentum.