History in the making

A NIGHT when, for Irish football, the transformation from the old to the new at Lansdowne Road is officially completed, will also mark a personal closing of the circle for Robbie Keane.

Back in 1998, the then 17-year-old made his home debut and gained his second Irish cap against Argentina at Lansdowne Road. Thirteen years on, and the 30-year-old, who is now Ireland’s all-time record goalscorer and captain, is set to reach the magical figure of 100 against the same opposition and at the same location, but this time against the backdrop of a spectacular new home in the flowing shape of the Aviva Stadium.

For the striker, it’s a moment for looking back — and looking forward.