In light of a decisive 5-1 defeat to Sweden, Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill emphasized the importance of treating the match as a learning experience. Despite conceding more goals in this game than in their last eight matches combined, O'Neill praised his players for their effort and attitude. He recognized the challenges faced by younger players who lack regular club exposure. The team prepares for further challenges with upcoming matches against Iceland and World Cup qualifying fixtures against Luxembourg and Germany.
We obviously didn't come here to have a scoreline like we had tonight, but we knew it would be a tough game. In all honesty, the attitude of the team was great. They never stopped trying to play.
5-1 is maybe a bit harsh on us but at the end of the day we did give them opportunities, and at this level they will punish you.
We're asking a lot of young players who aren't playing every week for their clubs. They are not exposed to this level and this quality of player.
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