O’Donoghue heads for Ireland’s World Cup clash

There is to be an official Irish Government presence at Ireland’s next World Cup tie against Spain in Suwon, South Korea, on Sunday.

Newly-appointed Sports Minister John O’Donoghue will be at the match on behalf of Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, who is unable to make the trip.

Mr O’Donoghue said tonight he would be proud to represent the Government at the game.

Spain were confirmed as Ireland’s next opponents earlier today.

Ireland qualified for the second round by beating Saudi Arabia in Yokohama, Japan, on Tuesday.