FIFA World Cup
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Four World Cup Spots Available for Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland Teams in 2026
The 2026 World Cup: A Central Topic for Irish Football
Anticipation Builds for a Historic Event
In 2026, the focus of conversations surrounding international football in Ireland will revolve around one major event – the World Cup.
Ambitions for Both North and South
The men’s teams from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, as well as their female counterparts, will have their sights set on qualifying for the tournament in North America next summer, followed by Brazil in 2027. Although there is a prevailing feeling that these global events may arrive too soon for some players, the aspiration to compete remains strong.
A Pivotal Moment for International Careers
For many athletes, the year 2026 could be crucial in shaping the future of their international football careers.