Carla Ward's two group campaigns have been like night and day
‘This group can get better and better,’ says Ireland boss.
On The 42
time for action
This World Cup needs the magic of the Azteca to act as catalyst for its salvation
The 2026 edition gets underway when co-hosts Mexico take on South Africa in Group A.
David Sneyd
reports from Azteca Stadium, Mexico City.
Fifa president says fans should be happy to watch World Cup for free on TV - 'We could make $30bn'
Gianni Infantino delivers another self-serving address on eve of tournament getting underway.
David Sneyd
reports from the Azteca Stadium, Mexico City.
David Alejandro Rojina Reyes: The untold story of Bray Wanderers’ unlikely Mexican man
Chris Shields, Eddie Gormley and Pat Devlin recall the defender’s brief stint at the Carlisle Grounds.
Mexico City gripped by protests and blockades with World Cup about to get underway
In a city where it feels like the walls are closing in, Fifa president Gianni Infantino takes centre stage acting like a man without a care in the world.
David Sneyd
reports from Mexico City
On The 42
Nations League
Moving Ireland-Israel game to Hungary simply removes right to protest, activists argue
The football association is expected to announce its decision on Thursday.
Sinn Féin and the Social Democrats are tabling motions in the Dáil calling for the game to be called off.
The Stop the Game campaign has threatened a judicial review over the "collective failure" to stop the fixtures from going ahead.
On The 42
Match Report
Ireland must settle for World Cup play-offs after more Malard magic in France
Les Bleues were reduced to 10 in the second half, but held on for automatic qualification.
Emma Duffy
Reports from Stade des Alpes, Grenoble
Anything is possible as Ireland within touching distance of ultimate World Cup dream
Carla Ward’s side face France in Grenoble, with automatic qualification for Brazil 2027 on the line.
Emma Duffy
Reports from Grenoble
On The 42
Getting closer
A love letter and a lament to football on the eve of the World Cup
For most of us, the game is a daily, weekly, ritual that blends into one so as to feel eternal.
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