Graham goal gives Northern Ireland huge qualification boost

EVERTON prospect Braiden Graham helped Northern Ireland take a massive step forwards in their pursuit of qualification for the Under-19s European Championships.

- By JOE THOMAS

The teenager scored the only goal of the game to seal a 1-0 win for his side against Azerbaijan on Saturday.

The three points secured by the goal mean Northern Ireland are guaranteed to take their efforts to reach the 2026 Euros one step further. The victory means Graham and his teammates will gain valuable 'elite' experience whether or not they reach the finals in Wales next summer.

Qualification for the Euros is held over two stages, with 52 countries currently split into groups of four.