Welcome to the high-tension world of in-play wagering, in which a late substitute or surprise corner kick can immediately alter the perspective—and the action.

From Pub Talk to Phone Tap

Recently, Irish football supporters gathered around pub screens, disagreeing on scoring forecasts and pre-game odds and signing their wagers in person or on their app. Those bets were typically sealed—win or lose—for 90 minutes.

And, with in-play betting, the lines blur between watching and gaming.

Whether supporting a last-minute resurgence or tipping the next scorer, punters are free from pre-game inclinations depending on what transpires on the field. The onset of any match is also the start of a new level of interactivity and online sports betting Irelandsites have made placing in-play bets as simple as tapping on a phone a few times.

Irish Fans Love a Swing

And that’s why in-play bets are on fire. Premier League games are a thrill ride, filled with momentum swings, penalty turnarounds, shock red cards and edge-of-your-seat stoppage-time winning goals. This exquisite unpredictability has Irish punters glued to the screen—and for gamblers, it’s a dream. Each turn of the match is a chance to cash in.

Recent market reports indicate that more Irish punters are turning to in-play bets rather than traditional pre-match bets. What draws the crowd? It’s multi-layered. It’s all about informed, more intelligent decision-making for some, having observed the first 15 to 20 minutes of a contest. Understanding how a team’s going for it and any changes in formation or injury impacts allows for improved judgment. Others enjoy the sting of excitement—odds fluctuating by the minute, momentum flipping on its head and the thrill of acting on the mayhem that begets calculated risk.

It was once a passive watch, but now, it’s an active, reactive experience. It’s not luck of the draw, it’s reading the game. In-play betting is, for many, a mini-game skill, grafted on top of the principal event. Fans apply the same enthusiasm and analysis to their bets in discussions of midfield dominance, defensive channels or pressurising strategies. They are not merely observing form, flow and momentum—instead, interpreting it in real time, usually with startling correctness.

A Tactical Game Within the Game

In-play wagering is no longer solely an exercise in instinct. It has created a new level of tactical involvement by fans. Bookmakers study possession figures, examine heat maps and scrutinise xg (expected goals) during a game to make informed on-the-spot decisions.

Want a bet on the next team that scores? You are not merely watching—you are computing.

This style of engagement has created societies of informed bettors who exchange real-time advice on social media, messaging groups and online discussion boards. Your knowledge of team depth and injury record may be as valuable as your allegiance to a badge.

Second Screens and Split Attention

With this new shift, there is a prominent trend—fans watch football with one eye on the playing field and another on their cell phone screens.

The “second screen” is now natural. Betting apps, stat dashboards and real-time commentary updates are constantly running with the game’s transmission. It is little wonder that Premier League fans in Ireland continually flick between Sky Sports and their go-to betting app during intense game moments.

The outcome? A more intense, but also distracted, experience. The emotional peaks and troughs are enhanced when real money is on the line with a last-minute corner or an extra-time scoring chance.

The Good, The Risky and The Regulated

Whereas in-play bets are revolutionising how fans interact with football, they also carry their warnings. Decision-making can be done too quickly, resulting in higher risk bets and reckless spending unless handled responsibly.

That’s why Irish gambling authorities and responsible gaming efforts still urge punters to remain in charge—to stay within their means, step back and place bets for entertainment purposes, not for the pursuit of cash.

Ireland’s bookmakers are now clearer in their communications about shifts in odds and promote tools that enable users to stop playing or exclude themselves when necessary. This is a welcome initiative for an industry that moves with the pace of the games.

Future of Live Betting in Ireland

The in-play market for the Premier League has a promising future. With continuing advances in streaming technology and slicker app interfaces, Irish punters can look forward to a faster, more personalised in-play betting experience.

Expect everything from instant cash-outs, AI-based bet recommendations and deeper stat integration to become the norm. The union of sport and technology is becoming ever stronger and Ireland is smack in the middle.

One thing’s for sure—whether it’s a wet Wednesday evening in the pub or a Super Sunday showdown in your front room, Premier League fans in Ireland are no longer merely watching the game. They’re playing it their way—bet by bet, moment by moment.

The post How In-Play Betting Is Changing the Way Irish Fans Watch the Premier League appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The race for European places is highly competitive, but for all the clubs competing in arguably the best league in the world next season, including Leeds United and Burnley who have bounced back after their respective relegations in 2023 and 2024, work on the summer transfer window will have already begun.

Teams will be looking to add further quality, raise funds, or trim down squads and a flurry of transfer activity is expected between now and the closing of the window on Monday 1st September. With every position across the pitch of vital importance, here is how each area of the pitch could be affected throughout the summer transfer window.

https://picryl.com/media/gfv-wnvq-wuaap-93-s-a14fe4

Goalkeepers

The future of Andre Onana has been seriously called into question after a catalogue of errors, most recently in the 2-2 draw away at Lyon in the Europa League. Luckily, the mistakes did not cost his club as Manchester United pulled off one of the comebacks of the ages to progress in extra time at Old Trafford. United have been linked with a series of goalkeepers including James Trafford (Burnley), Joan Garcia (Espanyol), and Lucas Chevalier (Lille) as they look to fix the last line of defence, while Onana has been interesting a handful of clubs in Saudi Arabia.

Defenders

While goalkeepers can win points on their own, a quality defensive line in front of them can provide a strong foundation for any team. A lot of movement is expected in the Premier League as teams look to bolster their back lines. For Bournemouth, the south coast side could be set to lose two of their most prized assets. Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez have both been linked with moves to Liverpool, with Huijsen even attracting admirers from Real Madrid.

While the loss of the Spaniard and Hungarian would be a huge blow, Bournemouth would pocket substantial profits from the pair for their own summer transfer window war chest. Elsewhere around the country, Chelsea is expected to continue splashing the cash and have been heavily linked with a bid for former defender Marc Guéhi, who has shone as the leader of Crystal Palace in yet another solid season for the south London club.

Enzo Maresca’s will want to feature further up the Premier League table next season to have something to show for all the money spent over the last few years since the Todd Boehly-led consortium started flexing its financial muscles. And many within the corridors of Stamford Bridge believe Guéhi could be vital to this success. However, Newcastle United will also be monitoring this story closely.

Midfielders

One of the transfer sagas that dates all the way back to last summer surrounds the future of 2024 UEFA European Championship winner, Martin Zubimendi. A protracted move to Liverpool did not materialize in the summer of 2024, and it is Arsenal who have stolen a march on the Spaniard, who replaced Rodri at half time in the Euro 2024 final win against England. Arsenal’s attempts could however be thwarted by Real Madrid if Los Blancos decide to appoint Xabi Alonso as Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement.

The Bayer 04 Leverkusen manager is said to be a big fan of his fellow countryman and would see him as an ideal fit to anchor the Real midfield. But while Zubimendi initially got away from Liverpool, a midfielder Arne Slot is reportedly looking to add to his championship-winning team is VfB Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller. The former TSG Hoffenheim midfielder has impressed as a playmaker in Sebastian Hoeneß’ side and also picked up valuable Champions League experience this season with the German side.

With Liverpool remaining injury-free over the course of the season, unlike their title rivals, Arsenal and Manchester City, adding depth in quality will be Slot’s priority as the Dutchman looks to win back-to-back Premier League trophies.

Strikers

From the bottom of the pitch, we arrive at the sharp end of it and there are a host of hitmen that could be causing Premier League defences havoc next season. The form of Bryan Mbeumo this season at Brentford has not gone unnoticed and many believe the Cameroonian has reached the end of the road with Thomas Frank’s team. At the age of 25, Mbeumo still has his best years in front of him, something that has not been ignored by the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Chelsea.

Manchester United especially are in dire need of a centre forward, with Ruben Amorim far from satisfied with the end product of Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee. You can check today’s sports news and tips at MegaTipsList to find the long list of strikers United are linked with. They include Ademola Lookman (Atalanta), the aforementioned Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha (Wolverhampton Wanderers), but top of Amorim’s wish list would be Viktor Gyökeres, a striker who continues to plunder goals for fun at Amorim’s former club Sporting Lisbon.

The Swede has also interested Arsenal, who have been in desperate need of a natural number 9 for seasons. Alongside Alexander Isak and Benjamin Šeško, Gyökeres remains a key target as The Gunners look to find the final piece of the jigsaw to finally win the Premier League under Mikel Arteta.

The post Premier League Summer Transfer Window: 10 Big Moves on the Horizon appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

April has been a significant month for Irish football, with both the men’s and women’s national teams recording key results. From Nations League success and emotional retirements to major club achievements and injury news, here’s a full update on the Republic of Ireland’s latest soccer stories.

Women’s Team Soaring Under Carla Ward

The Republic of Ireland women’s national team delivered back-to-back wins over Greece in the UEFA Nations League B. A dominant 4-0 away win in Heraklion was followed by a 2-1 victory at home in Dublin, keeping Carla Ward’s side within striking distance of Group 2 leaders Slovenia.

Marissa Sheva, Kyra Carusa, Jessie Stapleton, and Amber Barrett all found the net in the first fixture, while Barrett and Anna Patten sealed the second win. These results place Ireland just three points off top spot with promotion still very much in play.

Louise Quinn Retires After 121 Caps

Amid the celebrations, veteran defender Louise Quinn announced her retirement from international football. The 34-year-old departs with 121 caps and 16 goals, having played a key role in Ireland’s World Cup qualification and their historic game at the Aviva Stadium. Captain Katie McCabe led the tributes, calling Quinn “a warrior, a mentor and a friend.”

Men’s Team Secure Nations League Status

The men’s team defeated Bulgaria 2-1 in the Nations League playoff, ensuring their place in League B. Goals from Chiedozie Ogbene and Alan Browne helped secure a 4-2 aggregate win. Stephen Kenny’s side will now turn attention to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with fixtures against Hungary, Armenia and Portugal on the horizon.

Kelleher Shines as Bazunu Suffers

Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher lifted his first Premier League title after stepping up as first-choice goalkeeper in Alisson’s absence. The Cork native impressed during the title run-in and may now face a decision on his club future, with Liverpool linked to Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili.

Meanwhile, Gavin Bazunu returned to Southampton early from his loan spell at Standard Liège after suffering a knee injury. The setback raises concerns about his fitness for Ireland’s summer fixtures.

How Football is Improving the Online Gambling Industry

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The post Latest News in Irish Soccer appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Sweden has always been a dark horse in world football—technically sound, physically disciplined, and often underestimated. Whether it’s the Allsvenskan league, Svenska Cupen, or Sweden’s international campaigns, there’s strong value for punters who know where to look.

Allsvenskan Betting: Where Value Lives

The 2025 Allsvenskan season is underway, and it’s already delivering surprises. Malmö FF remain title favourites, but AIK, Djurgårdens IF and IFK Göteborg are all in the hunt. Bookmakers like Paddy Power and Bet365 offer excellent outright and matchday odds, with Malmö often priced short—meaning smarter bets may lie in backing underdogs with home advantage.

Tip: Look out for goalscorer markets. Strikers like Isaac Kiese Thelin and Deniz Hümmet are consistently good value in anytime scorer bets, especially when facing teams in the bottom half.
Also visit our partners at spelbolagutansvensklicens.co for more information on Allsvenskan.

Sweden National Team – Euro 2028 in Sight

Sweden’s national team is rebuilding with a strong blend of youth and experience. Players like Dejan Kulusevski and Alexander Isak are entering their prime, while youngsters from the U21 setup are pushing for places.

In Euro 2028 qualifying, Sweden sit second in their group behind Portugal. Their next fixtures against Czech Republic and Albania are crucial. With Isak in form for Newcastle and Emil Forsberg pulling strings in midfield, the Swedes remain a solid bet for both outright win and first goal markets.

Tip: Sweden tend to score early in qualifiers—first half goals markets offer decent value.

Best Swedish Betting Markets

• Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Allsvenskan matches often finish under 2.5 due to tight defending.
• Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Use BTTS in matches involving Djurgården or Elfsborg—strong attackers, leaky defences.
• In-Play Betting: Sweden’s national team can fade late—look for odds shifts after 70 minutes.

Conclusion: Backing Swedish Football with Confidence

Swedish football offers solid betting opportunities across club and international games. Do your homework, track form, and monitor injury news. With the right picks, Sweden can be more than just a fun watch—they can be a profitable one too.

The post Sweden Football Betting: Tips, Odds & Players to Watch in 2025 appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Shamrock Rovers boss defends LOI clubs amid claims of overpricing young talent

”I’ll speak to Damien now. I’ll see if we can agree to let our players go for free”

Stephen Bradley was gobsmacked discussing Ian Harte’s recent comments on the LOI “killing young lads’ chances”.

Question by Dan McDonnell of the Indo. pic.twitter.com/ect4nU7HA6

— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) February 28, 2025

Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley has strongly dismissed claims made by former Ireland international Ian Harte, who accused League of Ireland clubs of hindering young players’ careers by pricing them out of moves abroad.

Harte, who runs a player agency, suggested that some LOI clubs were demanding excessive fees for young prospects, limiting their chances of securing moves to top European leagues. However, Bradley has come out swinging, insisting that the League of Ireland is not only developing talent but also ensuring clubs get fair value for their assets.

“It’s a crazy statement. I don’t know where it’s coming from,” Bradley said. “If anything, we need more funding to help clubs develop young players properly. We’ve seen so many players move on successfully – that doesn’t happen if clubs are pricing them out of moves.”

Bradley pointed to Justin Ferizaj’s recent move to Italy as an example of the LOI system working well, allowing young players to progress while clubs are still compensated fairly. He also stressed that Irish clubs operate with limited financial backing compared to their European counterparts and that selling players is often crucial to their sustainability.

This debate highlights a growing tension between agents looking to move players quickly and domestic clubs aiming to secure fair returns for the talent they develop. With increasing interest in LOI players from clubs in England and beyond, this argument is unlikely to fade anytime soon.

The post Video – Stephen Bradley Hits Back at Ian Harte’s League of Ireland Criticism appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

League of Ireland Premier Division

Tolka Park, Friday, 7.45 PM

Champions Shelbourne will welcome arch-rivals Shamrock Rovers to Tolka Park on Friday night in what promises to be a highly anticipated Dublin derby. Damien Duff’s side have started their title defence in perfect fashion, registering wins over Derry City (3-1) and Waterford (1-0). Another victory here would send out a strong statement of intent.

A sell-out crowd of 5,100 is expected at the famous Drumcondra venue, and the home side has received a major boost with a fully fit squad available for selection.

For Shamrock Rovers, this fixture provides a chance to make a statement after being edged out by Shels for the title on the final day of last season. Stephen Bradley’s side endured a disappointing opening-day defeat to Bohemians but had last weekend off due to a postponement, giving them extra time to prepare.

The 𝗥𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗱 Derby in the 1920s, the 𝗧𝗼𝗹𝗸𝗮 Derby in the 1990s.

No matter the name, no matter the decade.

The 𝗗𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗲𝗿𝗯𝘆 Shels v Rovers is a big one. pic.twitter.com/8C5xR09QpS

— Shelbourne FC (@shelsfc) February 26, 2025

Shelbourne Team News & Preview

Shels’ strong start has been built on a solid defensive foundation and an ability to take chances when they come. New signings Mipo Odubeko, Ellis Chapman, Daniel Kelly, and Ryan O’Kane have settled in well, adding quality to Duff’s squad.

Duff knows that derby wins will be vital if Shelbourne are to retain their crown.

“Derbies were a topic we referenced in a team meeting this morning,” he said. “They’re not about bragging rights, they’re about putting points on the board. If you want to win the league, you have to win Dublin derbies.

“You also need a strong points return from Friday-to-Monday games. More often than not, if you manage that, you’ll be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.”

With back-to-back games in quick succession, Duff has highlighted the importance of squad depth, praising his medical and coaching staff for keeping players fit.

Shamrock Rovers Team News & Preview

Rovers’ title defence crumbled in the early months of last season, and Bradley is determined to ensure they hit their levels consistently this time around.

“We just need to be better than what we were last season,” Bradley said. “We don’t look at any individual team, we never have or never will. It’s more about what we know—if we do what we do to our best, we’ll give ourselves a better chance of being successful.

“Last season we didn’t do that domestically. The second half of the season was good, but that’s not enough at this club. It’s not enough to do it for four or five months, and we know that wasn’t acceptable.”

Bradley is boosted by the return of Jack Byrne, Trevor Clarke, and Adam Matthews, though Darragh Nugent and Danny Mandroiu remain out.

Despite Shels’ improvements, the Rovers boss isn’t expecting any major tactical surprises from the hosts.

“They’ve added some good players, but they pretty much do similar things,” he noted. “They’re good at what they do, but it’s similar to what they’ve done last season and the one before.”

Key Battle: Shelbourne’s Defence vs Rovers’ Attack

Shels had the best record in Dublin derbies last season, and their defensive structure frustrated Rovers at times. Rovers, meanwhile, will look to Johnny Kenny, Graham Burke, and Aaron Greene to provide the firepower needed to break through.

Match Prediction

Shelbourne have momentum and home advantage, but Rovers’ extra preparation time could prove crucial. Expect a tight and physical contest under the Tolka Park lights.

Prediction: Shelbourne 2-1 Shamrock Rovers

Team News

Shelbourne

Injured: None

Doubtful: None

Suspended: None

Shamrock Rovers

Injured: Darragh Nugent, Danny Mandroiu

Doubtful: None

Suspended: None

Match Details

Fixture: Shelbourne vs Shamrock Rovers

Venue: Tolka Park, Dublin

Kick-off: 7.45 PM

Referee: Neil Doyle

The post Match Preview: Shelbourne vs Shamrock Rovers appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Venue: Sullivan & Lambe Park
Date: Friday, 28th February 2025
Kick-off: 7:45 PM
Referee: Eoghan O’Shea

Drogheda United and Galway United meet at Sullivan & Lambe Park for an early-season Premier Division clash, with both sides aiming to extend their unbeaten runs.

DROGHEDA UNITED

Kevin Doherty’s men have made a solid start, securing a 0-0 draw away to St Patrick’s Athletic before comfortably beating Sligo Rovers 3-0 at home. That victory extended their unbeaten league run to four games, a streak that stretches back to last season.

However, Galway caused problems for Drogheda in 2024, winning twice and drawing twice across four meetings. Defender James Bolger remains optimistic about their current form.

“Defensively, we’ve been solid, and we know how lethal our attack can be. Four points is a brilliant start, but we need to build on it now. It’s great to be part of a backline where you can trust the lads beside you, with strong midfield cover and a solid keeper behind us.”

Bolger also acknowledged the challenge ahead:
“Galway are notoriously physical and tricky to play against. Chances will be hard to come by, but we’re confident of getting another three points.”

Team News – Drogheda United
• Injured: Elicha Ahui, Douglas James-Taylor.
• Doubtful: Paul Doyle, Joshua Thomas.
• Suspended: None.

GALWAY UNITED

The Tribesmen arrive in Louth after an impressive 1-0 win over St Patrick’s Athletic. That result followed an entertaining 2-2 draw away to Cork City on the opening day. Like Drogheda, they have collected four points from their first two games.

Assistant manager Ollie Horgan praised Drogheda’s transformation over the past year:
“I’ve seen teams improve, but they turned a side that looked relegation-bound into a Cup-winning team last year. Their recent results show they have high expectations again.”

He also called for patience as Galway continues to develop:
“People need to be realistic about where we came from and where we’re trying to go. We’ve only taken a small step forward.”

Team News – Galway United
• Injured: None reported.
• Doubtful: None reported.
• Suspended: None.

PREDICTION:

Drogheda United 2-1 Galway United

Both teams have started well, but Drogheda’s defensive structure and home advantage could prove decisive. Galway will battle hard, yet the Boynesiders look primed for a narrow win.

The post Drogheda United vs Galway United – Match Preview appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Cork City vs Galway United – League of Ireland 2025 Season Opener Preview

Competition: League of Ireland Premier Division 2025
Date: Friday, 16th February 2025
Venue: Turner’s Cross, Cork
Kick-off: 7:45 PM
Odds: Cork City (5/2) | Draw (9/4) | Galway United (1/1)

Opening Night at Turner’s Cross

The 2025 League of Ireland season kicks off with an exciting clash at Turner’s Cross, as newly promoted Cork City take on Galway United. The visitors come in as slight favorites, having already established themselves in the Premier Division last season.

Galway United finished mid-table in 2024 and are aiming to push for a European spot. Meanwhile, Cork City secured their Premier Division return by winning the First Division. They will hope to make a statement in front of their home fans.

Team News & Predicted Line-ups

Cork City

Manager: Tim Clancy

Expected Formation: 4-2-3-1

• Goalkeeper: Brann
• Defenders: Healy, Anderson, Coleman, Couto
• Midfielders: Holland, McLaughlin; Murray, Kavanagh, Bargary
• Striker: O’Sullivan

Key Player: Sean Murray – The former Dundalk playmaker will be crucial in Cork’s attacking setup.

Galway United

Manager: John Caulfield

Expected Formation: 4-3-3

• Goalkeeper: Watts
• Defenders: Horgan, O’Keeffe, Donelon, Wilson
• Midfielders: Hurley, Stynes, Kerrigan
• Forwards: Lomboto, Dyer, Wilson

Key Player: David Hurley – Galway’s midfield engine, capable of scoring and dictating play.

Tactical Battle & Key Match-ups

• Cork City’s Defence vs. Galway United’s Attack: Galway have pace up front with Moses Dyer and Francely Lomboto, while Cork’s new defensive signings will be tested.
• Midfield Battle – Hurley vs. Murray: Both playmakers will be key in controlling possession.
• Turner’s Cross Atmosphere: Can Cork use their home advantage to offset Galway’s experience?

Betting Tips & Match Prediction

Galway United enter as slight favorites, and their **extra experience at this level** gives them an edge. However, Cork City will fight hard in front of a passionate home crowd.

• **Prediction:** Cork City 1-2 Galway United
• **First Goalscorer:** Moses Dyer (Galway United)
• **Best Bet:** Galway United to Win (1/1)
• **Other Value Bets:** Both Teams to Score (5/6)

Final Thoughts

With Galway aiming for a top-four finish and Cork seeking a strong return to the Premier Division, this opener should be a thrilling contest. Will John Caulfield get one over his old club, or can Tim Clancy’s men cause an upset?

What’s your prediction? Drop your comments below!

The post Cork City vs Galway United – League of Ireland 2025 Season Opener Preview appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Galway United’s Big Ambitions, Shamrock Rovers’ Revenge Mission & Shelbourne’s Title Defence

The League of Ireland Premier Division 2025 season is set to be one of the most competitive in years. Galway United is back in the top flight, looking to build on last season, while Shamrock Rovers seek redemption after losing their title to Shelbourne. With major transfers, managerial changes, and European ambitions on the line, here’s a club-by-club breakdown of what to expect.

Galway United: Can Caulfield’s Men Push for Europe?

Last Season (2024) Performance

Galway United returned to the Premier Division and held their own, finishing mid-table in a season of ups and downs. They showed resilience but lacked consistency to challenge for a European spot. Assistant manager Ollie Horgan has already hinted at the need for greater ambition in 2025. (Source)

Key Transfers In
• Evan Watts (GK) – Swansea City (Loan): Highly-rated young goalkeeper.
• Moses Dyer (FW) – Vancouver FC: A versatile forward with international experience for New Zealand.
• Daniel Stynes (MF) – Newcastle Jets: A creative midfielder from Australia.
• Sean Kerrigan (MF) – Michigan State Spartans: A young talent with potential.
• Max Wilson (FW) – Preston North End (Loan): A promising attacker.

Key Transfers Out
• Francely Lomboto (FW) – Sligo Rovers
• Karl O’Sullivan (FW) – Treaty United
• Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe (FW) – Karşıyaka Anamur
• Conor O’Keeffe (DF) – Dundalk
• Jack Brady (GK) – Drogheda United
• Maurice Nugent (MF) – Green Gully

Predicted Finish: 4th – European Push?

With a more settled squad and solid recruitment, Galway United should be challenging for a top-four finish. They may not be title contenders yet, but European qualification is within reach.

Shamrock Rovers: Time to Reclaim the Title?

Last Season Performance

Shamrock Rovers saw their four-year title reign end in 2024 as they finished runners-up to Shelbourne. Manager Stephen Bradley has been busy in the transfer market to ensure his side bounces back.

Key Transfers In
• Ed McGinty (GK) – Oxford United: A top-performing keeper from Sligo Rovers.
• Danny Grant (FW) – Bohemians: A key attacking reinforcement.

Key Transfers Out
• Neil Farrugia (MF) – Barnsley
• Seán Hoare (DF) – St Patrick’s Athletic
• Richie Towell (MF) – Released

Predicted Finish: 1st – Champions Again?

Shamrock Rovers have the strongest squad on paper, and if their signings click, they should reclaim the title.

Shelbourne: Duff’s Men Aim for Back-to-Back Titles

Last Season Performance

Damien Duff led Shelbourne to a stunning title win in 2024, ending Shamrock Rovers’ dominance. However, Duff insists they are not defending a title, but instead chasing another one. (Source)

Key Transfers In

Shelbourne has been quiet in the market so far, but Duff is expected to add reinforcements before the season begins.

Predicted Finish: 2nd – Strong Title Defence

Shelbourne will push Shamrock Rovers all the way, but whether they can go back-to-back remains to be seen.

St Patrick’s Athletic: Building for the Future

Last Season Performance

St Pat’s had a solid 2024 season, finishing third and securing European qualification.

Key Transfers In
• Seán Hoare (DF) – Shamrock Rovers: A defensive boost.
• Mason Melia (FW) – Tottenham Hotspur (Delayed Move): The €2 million-rated striker will move to Spurs when he turns 18. (Source)

Predicted Finish: 3rd – Another European Spot

St Pat’s are well-equipped for another strong campaign.

Dundalk: Rebuilding Era Begins

Last Season Performance

Dundalk had a disappointing 2024, finishing outside the top four.

Key Transfers In
• Conor O’Keeffe (DF) – Galway United
• Several Young Talents from UK Lower Leagues

Predicted Finish: 6th – Transitional Season

Dundalk is in rebuilding mode, and a European spot may be just out of reach.

Derry City: Can They Break Into the Top Three?

Last Season Performance

Derry City finished fourth in 2024 and want to break into the top three.

Key Transfers In
• TBC – Awaiting January Signings

Predicted Finish: 5th – European Spot Battle

Derry will be competitive but need more depth to break into the top three.

Sligo Rovers: Mid-Table Battle

Last Season Performance

Sligo Rovers had an inconsistent 2024, finishing 7th.

Key Transfers In
• Francely Lomboto (FW) – Galway United

Predicted Finish: 7th

Sligo will likely be mid-table again.

Bohemians: Can They Return to Europe?

Last Season Performance

Bohemians missed out on European football, finishing 6th.

Key Transfers In
• TBC – Awaiting January Window

Predicted Finish: 6th – Europa League Fight

Bohemians will be fighting for a European spot.

Drogheda United , Cork City & Waterford FC: Relegation Battle?

Cork City FC: 2025 Season Preview

Overview:

Cork City FC, based in Cork, Ireland, is a prominent football club with a rich history in the League of Ireland. The team plays its home matches at Turner’s Cross Stadium, which has a capacity of 7,485 spectators. 

Recent Performance:

In the 2024 season, Cork City secured promotion to the Premier Division by clinching the First Division title with a victory over UCD on September 6, 2024.  This achievement marked their return to the top flight of Irish football.

Key Transfers:

Incoming:

Conor Brann (Goalkeeper): The 21-year-old joined Cork City after leaving Swindon Town. Manager Tim Clancy praised Brannâ€s tall and commanding presence, highlighting him as a significant addition to the squad.

Freddie Anderson (Defender): An 18-year-old center-back on a season-long loan from Stoke City. Anderson, who scored on his debut for Stoke in a Carabao Cup match, is expected to bolster Cork Citys defense.

Tein Troost (Goalkeeper): Signed on loan from NAC Breda, Troost adds depth to the goalkeeping department. 

Benny Couto (Defender): A permanent signing aimed at strengthening the backline.

• Sean Murray (Midfielder): Brought in to add creativity and experience to the midfield.

Alex Nolan (Winger): A dynamic winger expected to enhance the teams attacking options.

Re-signings:

• Evan McLaughlin (Midfielder): Committed to the club by signing a new contract for the 2025 season, reinforcing the midfield lineup. 

Pre-season Preparations:

Cork City has been actively preparing for the upcoming season, with a notable pre-season friendly against Kerry FC at Mounthawk Park on February 5, 2025. These matches are crucial for integrating new signings and fine-tuning tactics ahead of the league campaign. 

Projected Outlook:

Returning to the Premier Division, Cork City aims to establish themselves as a competitive force. With strategic signings and a blend of experienced and young talents, they are expected to target a mid-table finish, with aspirations of challenging for European qualification spots. The teams performance will largely depend on how quickly the new additions gel and adapt to the demands of top-flight football.

Predicted Finish:
• Drogheda United – 9th
• Waterford FC – 10th (Relegated)

Both clubs face a tough season and will be battling to avoid the drop.

Final Predicted 2025 League Table
1. Shamrock Rovers (Champions)
2. Shelbourne (Title Contenders)
3. St Patrick’s Athletic (European Spot)
4. Galway United (Surprise Package)
5. Derry City (Top-Five Battle)
6. Bohemians (Mid-Table)
7. Sligo Rovers (Mid-Table)
8. Dundalk (Rebuilding)
9. Drogheda United (Survival Battle)
10. Waterford FC (Relegated)

Final Thoughts

The 2025 League of Ireland season promises big drama, title fights, and European battles. Can Shamrock Rovers reclaim the crown, or will Galway United push for Europe? Drop your predictions below!

The post League of Ireland 2025 Season Preview: Transfers, Predictions & Key Players appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The Republic of Ireland men’s national football team recently finished third in League B Group 2 of the UEFA Nations League competition, meaning they are still in the tournament but must make it past the playoffs to progress to the next phase.

The team recently climbed three positions on the official FIFA World Rankings, moving from number 63 to 60. Irish fans expect a handful of rising stars to be key in helping Ireland beat Bulgaria in the playoffs when they play them in March.

With that said, here are the names of five rising stars in Irish football who can potentially help Ireland progress past the playoffs if they get the call-up.

Which five rising stars in Irish football should everyone know about in 2025?

Here are the names of five rising stars in Irish football that everyone should know about in 2025. These talented young individuals could help transform the national team and potentially take them to extraordinary new heights.

They include the following players, which some of you may already be familiar with by now:

All five of these promising young Irish footballers have proven technical capabilities, and they are fast-paced, have plenty of strength, and can defend and attack. They will all be looking to prove themselves in 2025, and Irish fans will be pinning their hopes on each of these rising stars if they make it to the first team.

It’s likely that you’ll be seeing these rising stars as favourites for various individual awards in the coming years, and on teams vying for big competitions when you bet on Gaelic sports and upcoming football matches, provided you are at least 18 years old.

Can R.O.I beat Bulgaria in the UEFA Nations League playoffs in March 2025?

To find out if the Republic of Ireland can beat Bulgaria in the upcoming UEFA Nations League playoffs in March 2025, we must look to the iGaming industry’s most trusted online bookmakers, such as the official 1Bet online sportsbook, to see the latest average odds, which, don’t forget, are subject to change at any time.

The first of two legs between Bulgaria and the R.O.I. is expected to take place on March 20, 2025, at 19:45.

The Republic of Ireland are the odds-on favourites to win this match and are currently priced at around 2.25 in the decimal odds format, which is 5/4 in fractional odds and +125 in American/moneyline odds, meaning R.O.I have a 44.40% implied probability rate of winning.

In comparison, their opponents, Bulgaria, are currently priced at around 2/1 to win the first leg outright, which is 3.00 in decimal odds, 2/1 in fractional odds, and +200 in American/moneyline odds (with a 33.30% IPR).  

Final thoughts

It will be interesting to see which of these five rising Irish football stars will be called upon to help overcome Bulgaria in the playoffs and who, if any, will progress the most for both club and country over the coming years.

Besides Festy Ebosele, Jake O’Brien, Troy Parrott, Aidomo Emakhu, and Armstrong Okoflex, some of the other promising young Irish footballers to keep an eye out for this year are Ryan O’Kane, Darragh Markey, and Johnny Kenny, to name just a few.

The post Top 5 Rising Stars in the Irish Football appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.