Northern Ireland are already in must-win territory before a ball has even been kicked in their Euro 2020 qualifying group.
Manager Michael O'Neill has called this week's qualifiers against Estonia and Belarus "essential" if they are to enjoy any success in their campaign.
With Netherlands and Germany the other two teams in Group C, O'Neill recognises the two home games this week are the most winnable of all eight fixtures ahead of his side.
"They're essential," he said. "There's no point saying otherwise. If we didn't get a result, yes you still have games to make up but if we're realistic we have to make sure with these two games we do everything possible to win.
"Our other two home games are Germany and Holland so without being disrespectful to Estonia and Belarus these are the easier games at home."

Northern Ireland vs Estonia UK channel
The match will be shown live on Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Main Event from 7:30pm, and is available via Now TV with a day pass on offer for £8.99.
Sky Sports subscribers can stream the match online via SkyGo and the SkyGo app.
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