The Republic of Ireland have made one last stand to play in next year’s World Cup finals by asking FIFA to allow them in as a 33rd nation following their controversial play-off defeat to France.

‘Best Team in Europe’ proudly proclaimed Irish banners at Hamilton, revelling in England’s first-round exit from the World Cup. 

THE Genesis chief delivered a damning indictment of the stewardship of the FAI in one throwaway sentence last night when he suggested that minutes of one of their World Cup meetings had shown that more time had been spent in discussing the accreditation arrangements and organising complimentary tickets than in dealing with preparations for the World Cup.

AFTER an August of seemingly never-ending series of setbacks with injury and poor on-field form, Ireland coach Eddie O’Sullivan could at least afford to smile a little yesterday.

Steve Staunton has spoken of his determination to repeat the success he enjoyed as a player for the Republic of Ireland after taking over as manager.

Patience and self-belief were the virtues that accounted for Italy and will stand Ireland in good stead for the World Cup.

Yossi Benayoun is convinced West Ham will be in the hunt for trophies again next season and he backed the Hammers to be a force in Europe after a stunning first season at Upton Park.

Jason McAteer has been passed fit to play for the Republic of Ireland in their opening World Cup Group E clash with Cameroon on Saturday.

The 2018 World Cup is barely up and running but already we know that the 2026 edition will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, writes Liam Mackey

American sports executive Charlie Stillitano believes only a "crazy action" by Donald Trump could prevent the United States from winning the right to stage the 2026 World Cup.

Louis van Gaal has been named as the next manager of Manchester United.

Paul O’Connell has “changed beyond belief” in a late-career surge that has earned him his two-year move to Toulon, according to Reggie Corrigan.

The Qatar diplomatic crisis can end if Doha gives up hosting the 2022 Fifa World Cup, a top Emirati security official has said.

FIFA has said there has been no evidence of match-fixing at any World Cup match and called on a German magazine which made allegations concerning Cameroon to offer proof.

Chile coach Jorge Sampaoli hailed his “rebels” after the South Americans knocked reigning champions Spain out of the World Cup.

Wales want to put down an immediate marker in terms of their discipline when they face opening World Cup warm-up opponents Ireland on Saturday.

Cristiano Ronaldo's superb free-kick gave Real Madrid a 1-0 win over Brazilian side Gremio as they retained their FIFA Club World Cup title in Abu Dhabi.

Boris Johnson sowed confusion over England's World Cup involvement - before his team rejected suggestions that Gareth Southgate's squad could be pulled from the competition.