‘Priceless’ Super Cup in Belfast a boost to create ‘compelling’ 2030 World Cup bid

The match was the second most important match between two clubs to take place on the island of Ireland, after the 2011 Europa League final at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium

Villarreal fans at Windsor Park. Picture: INPHO/Presseye/William Cherry

It’s a long way off and an even longer shot, but Ireland and Northern Ireland’s bid to co-host the 2030 Fifa World Cup has been “elevated” following Windsor Park’s staging of the Uefa Super Cup.

That’s the analysis of the Irish Football Association CEO Patrick Nelson who believes that Belfast’s “priceless” hosting of Wednesday night’s European showpiece, has put the small football nation at the centre of world attention and perfectly positioned for a World Cup bid with its fellow UK and Irish associations.