Northern Ireland 0-0 Bulgaria

Northern Ireland's hopes of qualifying for the 2022 World Cup were dealt a blow as they failed to find a way past Bulgaria in a frustrating goalless draw in Belfast.

Captain Steven Davis set the British caps record with appearance 126 in a fixture that had been billed as a must-win for manager Ian Baraclough.

Despite their dominance of possession, the first half produced few chances for his men to find the opener as Stuart Dallas headed against the bar after 21 minutes, and Josh Magennis went close soon after.

The home side were also fortunate not to be punished for an error on 39 minutes when goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell dropped a free kick that had had been floated into the box, the Burnley stopper relieved to see Valentin Antov head harmlessly over the bar.

Into the second half, Gavin Whyte tested the keeper with 48 on the clock following a quick free kick as Northern Ireland picked up the intensity after the interval.

There were few chances to show for all their possession, and it wasn't until the 74th minute they created a good opening for Niall McGinn, who narrowly missed after shooting on the turn.

Northern Ireland kept knocking on the door, but McGinn saw his shot deflected wide with 85 minutes gone as hopes began to fade.

There was time remaining for a Bulgarian chance at a smash-and-grab victory, but Peacock-Farrell made a great save to deny Iliev at the death and secure a point for his side.