Soccer
Last week
22nd February 2026 - 28th February 2026
column
Sport and politics don't mix in Ireland - except when we want them to
The government’s efforts to shut down debate on the Israel game cannot last.
THE BEAT
League of Ireland footballers put FAI to shame with moral clarity over Israel
This is a time for Irish football to stand for something much bigger and more important than itself or its own priorities and interests.
decisions decisions
'Gives me food for thought' - O'Neill faces selection dilemmas for Old Firm derby
never happened
Benfica denies that Prestianni admitted to racially abusing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior
Punishment
Drogheda United hit with ‘record sanctions’ following Louth derby pyrotechnics
The punishment follows the controversial scenes after flares were thrown during their derby clash with Dundalk last week.
home game
RTÉ still plans to broadcast Ireland-Israel match in October, despite TD's letter calling for boycott
One to Watch
Chelsea academy prospect completes transfer to FAI from Northern Ireland
Chris Atherton – who became the UK’s youngest-ever senior footballer with Glenavon at the age of just 13 – will represent the Republic of Ireland.
AnalysisFlares
Would such a 'plague upon their houses' be inflicted on rugby and GAA fans who use pyro?
Patrick O’Donovan’s Thatcherite language and assertions made about an entire community were deeply worrying.
annual survey
New Uefa report reveals historic Premier League spending and shows LOI lagging behind on TV income
Business end
Vinicius Junior nets winner after first leg marred by alleged racial abuse of Real Madrid star
Nations League
'They have not threatened anything' - FAI CEO insists no Uefa pressure to play Israel
Ready to go
Ireland will play Israel at Aviva Stadium in October, FAI confirm
There had been previous security concerns about the fixture.
League of Ireland
Shamrock Rovers board meeting heard details of transfer agreement in February 2025
A Fifa review is ongoing following League of Ireland champions’ self-reporting last year.
Terrace Talk
Standing room only: In the north curve as Celtic's season threatens to unravel
The sudden panic around Celtic is jeopardising the recovery under Martin O’Neill.
damage
'We're all devastated by how it looks. This has nothing to do with football. It just can't happen again'
Resolve
Dundalk finally have a late late show to savour with draw at Shamrock Rovers
Danny Mullen rifled home from close range on 90 minutes after Roberto Lopes had given champions the lead.
In form
Super-sub Sesko fires Man United to win at Everton
The Red Devils continued their unbeaten run under interim boss Michael Carrick.
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Experience Ireland
Feb 23
