The key talking points: Can Ryan Manning step up for Ireland?

It's Hungary first up for Ireland in Dublin.

Fri, 05 Sep, 2025 - 11:52

Damian Spellman, PA

The Republic of Ireland open their World Cup qualifying campaign on Saturday evening determined to end their wait for a return to the big stage.

Ireland last made the finals in 2002 and although they have qualified for Euro 2012 and 2016 in the meantime, the hunger to return to the top table is acute.

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<p>Referee John Beaton speaks to Kelechi Iheanacho before going to the VAR monitor and awarding a penalty to Celtic. Pic: Robert Perry/PA Wire.</p>

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