Northern Ireland are managed by Michael O'Neill who replaced Nigel Worthington in December 2011. O'Neill is currently looking to lead his country to their first World Cup since 1986. He faces a tough task having been drawn in a tricky group, which includes Russia and Portugal.
Northern Ireland were defeated by Russia in their opening Group F match and then conceded a late equaliser in what was a disappointing draw at home to Luxembourg. However, they miraculously then came away from Portugal with a stunning 1-1 draw to keep their hopes of qualification alive.
Worthington stepped down as Northern Ireland manager in October 2011 after he failed to guide them to Euro 2012. A series of poor results, including a home defeat to Estonia, meant that the country could no longer qualify for the Finals and Worthington thus decided to end his four-and-a-half-year reign as manager.
Northern Ireland Manager History
| Manager | From | To |
| Nigel Worthington | 2007 | 2011 |
| Lawrie Sanchez | 2004 | 2007 |
| Sammy McIlroy | 2002 | 2003 |
| Lawrie McMenemy | 1998 | 1999 |
| Bryan Hamilton | 1994 | 1998 |
| Billy Bingham | 1980 | 1994 |
| Danny Blanchflower | 1976 | 1979 |
| Dave Clements | 1975 | 1876 |
| Terry Neill | 1971 | 1975 |
| Billy Bingham | 1967 | 1971 |
| Bertie Peacock | 1962 | 1967 |
| Peter Doherty | 1951 | 1962 |
