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2023 Copa Libertadores: Your Ultimate Guide to the Teams, Structure, and Top Contenders

Few events on the football calendar can compete with the Copa Libertadores. This prestigious event brings together the best club teams from South America, attracting millions of spectators worldwide. It is not only a spectacular spectacle for football fans, but it is also extremely popular amongst South American bettors and even those who play real money slots. The current Copa Libertadores season is already in full swing, with clubs vying for a position in the next round. In this article, we will give you a comprehensive overview of the competition’s format and insights into some of the major contestants.

How The Copa Libertadores Works?

The premier football club tournament in South America got underway in early February, with teams looking to book their spot in the main competition. In total, there are three qualification campaigns that teams will need to navigate to reach the group stage proper, which is where the real serious nature of the competition heats up.

The 32 teams that qualify for the group stage are then drawn into eight groups of four. Each team in the group will come up against the other sides located in their group on two occasions, playing once at home and once on the road. After all the matches have been played, the top two teams in the standings progress to the knockout round. Meanwhile, the team that finishes third will play the remainder of the season in the Copa Sudamericana.

In the knockout round, teams that finish top of their respective group standings will compete against teams that finished second in the group stage. The team that finished higher in their group standings will have a home advantage in the second leg. Teams will then compete over two-legged ties before only two sides remain, and those sides will compete in the Copa Libertadores final.

Leading Copa Libertadores Contenders

The group stage campaign is nearly concluded, which means that the teams that will compete in the knockout stage are close to being determined. The leading contenders to win the Copa Libertadores this term are Palmeiras. As one of Brazil’s top clubs, they will be expected to go deep in the competition this term, but they could face a fight when the knockout stages get underway, as they look set to finish Group C in second place after winning three of their four matches.

Last season’s champions Flamengo are also among the leading contenders this season, but they face a nervy two final rounds of matches before their spot in the next round is concerned. They currently sit second in Group A and have won just once in their opening four matches. They could yet finish down in fourth in the standings, as they are five points adrift of the team at the top of the standings.

One of the most impressive sides throughout the group stages comes in the form of Fluminense, who sit top of the Group D standings. The Brazilian club has won three of their opening four matches in the competition, having scored an impressive nine goals and allowed just three. However, they will need a victory in the penultimate round of games in the group to secure their spot in the round of 16 as group winners.

History & Winners

The Copa Libertadores has been one of the most celebrated soccer events in South America since its inception in 1960. It is most similar to the Champions League, with the competition being staged between January and November. The winning team will secure their spot in the FIFA Club World Cup, and the Recopa Sudamericana in the following season.

The most successful team in the history of the event is Argentina’s Independiente, who has claimed victory on seven occasions. Teams from Argentina have also picked up the most victories with 25 victories, while Brazil is the second most successful nation with ten victories. Last season, Brazilian team Flamengo landed a third title in the history of the event which marked the fourth straight year in which a team from the nation has won the Copa Libertadores.

Conclusion

The Copa Libertadores is one of the most exciting footballing competitions on the calendar, and that is certainly the case once again in 2023. There will be no shortage of leading contenders to land the prestigious prize, and it will make for compelling viewing for all football fans when the knockout stages of the tournament get underway later in the year.

Ireland Men’s Sevens Squad Named for European Games

The Ireland Men’s Sevens squad has been announced for the highly anticipated European Games in Krakow, as they aim to secure their spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Head Coach James Topping has selected an unchanged 13-player squad for the tournament, where the winner will earn a ticket to next summer’s Games.

Captain Harry McNulty leads the squad, which includes the impressive Terry Kennedy, recently crowned World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year, making a return to the green jersey after his performance at the Rugby Europe Championship.

Prepared and Ready for Olympic Qualification

The Ireland Men’s team concluded their preparations with a stellar performance in Portugal, clinching the Algarve 7s title. Now, they face a tough challenge in Krakow from June 25th to 27th, as 12 teams compete for Olympic qualification.

Seeking Back-to-Back Olympic Appearances

After their historic debut at Tokyo 2020, Topping’s side is eager to achieve back-to-back Olympic qualifications. Meanwhile, Ireland Women have already secured their place in the Olympics, marking a significant milestone with their first-ever qualification in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

Coach Topping’s Expectations

Head Coach Topping expressed his anticipation for the tournament, acknowledging the competitive nature of the event and the team’s ambition to follow in the footsteps of the Ireland Women by securing their spot in the Paris Olympics. He emphasized the need for the squad to perform at their best to increase their chances of success.

Krakow Set to Host Rugby Sevens

The Rugby Sevens action will unfold at the Henryk Reyman Stadium in Krakow, with Pool matches commencing on June 25th. The Pool draw and fixture schedule will be announced soon, setting the stage for thrilling encounters.

Team Ireland’s Support

Gavin Noble, Team Ireland Chef de Mission for Krakow 2023, highlighted the significance of rugby in Team Ireland’s ambitions for the European Games. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to qualify, citing their recent performances as evidence of their readiness. Noble also extended best wishes to the men’s team as they strive to achieve their qualification goals for the Paris Olympics.

Ireland Men’s Sevens Squad

The squad for the European Games includes notable players such as Jordan Conroy, Niall Comerford, Billy Dardis, Jack Kelly, Liam McNamara, Bryan Mollen, and more. These talented athletes will represent Ireland with passion and determination as they vie for Olympic qualification.

As the Ireland Men’s Sevens squad prepares for their crucial challenge in Krakow, the nation eagerly awaits their performance. Their goal is clear: to secure their place at the 2024 Paris Olympics and continue their success on the international stage.

Ireland U20s Squad Announced for World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa

Ireland U20s Squad Announced for World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa

Head Coach Richie Murphy has unveiled the Ireland U20s squad sponsored by PwC, as they gear up for the highly anticipated World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa. Let’s delve into the details of this exciting announcement.

Consistency in Selection from Grand Slam Success

Murphy has opted for consistency in his selection, choosing 26 out of the 30 players who featured in the U20 Six Nations and played a crucial role in Ireland’s memorable Grand Slam-winning campaign earlier this season. The squad is filled with talented young athletes ready to represent their country on the global stage.

Four New Faces Join the Ranks

Among the squad, four uncapped players will be looking to make their mark. Forwards Ronan Foxe, Max Clein, and Dan Barron, along with scrum-half Jack Oliver, have earned their spots in the travelling party and will be eager to contribute to Ireland’s success in the tournament.

Captaincy Duties Entrusted to Gus McCarthy

Leinster hooker Gus McCarthy, who led Ireland to Championship glory in March, has been named captain for the upcoming tournament. His leadership skills and experience will be vital in guiding the team towards their goals in South Africa.

Pool B Challenges Await Ireland

Ireland has been drawn into Pool B alongside formidable opponents England, Australia, and Fiji. The team will face tough competition as they look to make their mark in the tournament. All three of their Pool matches will be held at Paarl Gymnasium in the Western Cape, setting the stage for thrilling encounters.

Excitement and Preparation for the Championship

Head Coach Richie Murphy expressed his excitement ahead of the squad’s departure for South Africa, emphasizing the team’s readiness to test themselves against the world’s best. The players have been pushing each other in intense preparation, knowing that they need to evolve and grow as a team to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.

Coaching Staff and PwC Sponsorship

Murphy also confirmed the coaching staff for the tournament, with Mark Sexton and Aaron Dundon continuing in their roles, supported by new addition Andrew Browne as Defence and Lineout Coach. Furthermore, PwC, a strategic partner committed to nurturing young talent, sponsors the Ireland U20s squad. PwC wishes the team the best of luck and believes they can build on their success from the Six Nations.

Stay Tuned for Broadcast Details and Coverage

World Rugby will announce broadcast details for the World Rugby U20 Championship soon. Fans can follow the progress of the Irish team throughout the tournament on IrishRugby.ie and Irish Rugby’s social media platforms, ensuring they don’t miss a moment of the action.

As the Ireland U20s embark on their journey to South Africa, the nation eagerly anticipates their performance in the World Rugby U20 Championship. The future of Irish rugby looks promising, and these young athletes are ready to showcase their skills on the global stage. #FutureIsGreen.

EPCR Introduces New Multi-Pool Format for 2023/24 Season

EPCR Introduces New Multi-Pool Format for 2023/24 Season, Promising Increased Jeopardy and Excitement

EPCR, in collaboration with the Leagues and Unions, has announced an exciting return to a multi-pool format for the 2023/24 Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup. This strategic move aims to enhance the sporting jeopardy and deliver a thrilling experience for players, clubs, and supporters alike. Let’s explore the key details and changes that fans can look forward to in the upcoming tournaments.

EPCR and Leagues Collaborate to Enhance Competitions:

The decision to implement new tournament structures reflects EPCR’s commitment to engaging and captivating audiences, while also considering the preferences of stakeholders, broadcasters, and fans. The collaboration with the Ligue Nationale de Rugby, Premiership Rugby, and the United Rugby Championship has been instrumental in formulating these changes.

New Tournament Structures for Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup:

Both the Champions Cup and the EPCR Challenge Cup will feature four pool stage rounds and four knockout stage rounds, spanning over eight weekends of intense rugby action. The tournaments will culminate in the highly anticipated London 2024 finals, which will take place at the iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in May.

Eight-week Schedule with Thrilling Pool and Knockout Stages:

Fans can expect an action-packed season as the clubs battle it out in their respective pools. The Champions Cup will witness 24 elite clubs competing across four pools of six, while the EPCR Challenge Cup will feature 18 clubs divided into three pools of six. Each club will face four different opponents home or away during the pool stages, amplifying the excitement and unpredictability.

EPCR Chairman’s Delight in Enhancing Fan Experience:

EPCR Chairman, Dominic McKay, expressed his satisfaction with the new formats, emphasizing the importance of creating tournaments that are easily understandable, engaging, and captivating for supporters. The ultimate objective is to enthrall both existing and new audiences, solidifying the competitions’ status as the pinnacle of professional club rugby.

Champions Cup: Elite Clubs Prepare for Intense Competition:

The Champions Cup will bring together the best of European rugby, with eight representatives each from the TOP 14, Gallagher Premiership, and BKT United Rugby Championship (URC). Notable qualifiers, such as Stade Rochelais, Saracens, and Munster Rugby, will feature in Tier 1, while the remaining 20 clubs will compete in Tier 2. A balanced draw and competitive pool stages will pave the way for thrilling matches throughout the season.

EPCR Challenge Cup: A Platform for Exciting Matchups:

The EPCR Challenge Cup will see 18 clubs battling for glory, including representatives from the URC, TOP 14, and the Premiership. Additionally, two invited clubs, soon to be announced, will join the competition. Three pools of six clubs will be formed, ensuring diverse matchups and reducing same-league encounters to a minimum. This format promises captivating clashes and a pathway for emerging talents to shine on the European stage.

Pool Stage Principles Ensure Balanced Competition:

To ensure fairness and competitiveness, several key principles have been established for the pool stage draw. Firstly, each pool will have a maximum of two clubs from the same league, promoting variety in matchups. Secondly, clubs from the same URC Shield and Premiership will be kept apart, guaranteeing diverse encounters. Lastly, fixtures will be structured to avoid matches between clubs from the same league, adding an extra layer of intrigue and excitement.

Knockout Stage Qualification and Eagerly Awaited Draws:

At the conclusion of the pool stage, the top four clubs from each pool in the Champions Cup will advance to the Round of 16. In contrast, the fifth-ranked club from each pool will secure a spot in the knockout stage of the EPCR Challenge Cup. The highly anticipated pool draws for both tournaments will take place at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday, June 21, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming season.

Save the Date: Key Matches and Grand Finals at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium:

Mark your calendars for the key dates of the 2023/24 season. Round 1 of the tournaments will kick off on December 8-10, 2023, followed by three more thrilling rounds of pool stage matches. The Round of 16 is scheduled for April 5-7, 2024, leading up to the highly anticipated quarter-finals on April 12-14. The semi-finals will take place on May 3-5, setting the stage for the EPCR Challenge Cup final on May 24 and the Champions Cup final on May 25, both held at the iconic Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

In conclusion, the introduction of a multi-pool format for the 2023/24 Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup is set to deliver heightened sporting jeopardy, increased excitement, and captivating matchups throughout the season. EPCR’s commitment to engaging fans, collaborating with leagues, and prioritizing the fan experience ensures that these tournaments remain the pinnacle of professional club rugby. With the pool draws around the corner, rugby enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate the clash of the titans in the upcoming season.

2023/24 CHAMPIONS CUP QUALIFIERS
TOP 14 – Stade Rochelais, Stade Toulousain, Racing 92, Union Bordeaux-Bègles, Lyon, Stade Français Paris, RC Toulon, Aviron Bayonnais
GALLAGHER PREMIERSHIP – Saracens, Sale Sharks, Leicester Tigers, Northampton Saints, Harlequins, Exeter Chiefs, Bath Rugby, Bristol Bears
BKT UNITED RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP – Munster Rugby, DHL Stormers, Leinster Rugby, Ulster Rugby, Glasgow Warriors, Vodacom Bulls, Connacht Rugby, Cardiff Rugby

2023/24 EPCR CHALLENGE CUP QUALIFIERS
BKT UNITED RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP – Cell C Sharks, Emirates Lions, Benetton Rugby, Edinburgh Rugby, Ospreys, Scarlets, Dragons RFC, Zebre Parma
TOP 14 – Castres Olympique, ASM Clermont Auvergne, Montpellier Herault Rugby, Section Paloise, USAP, Oyonnax Rugby
GALLAGHER PREMIERSHIP – Gloucester Rugby, Newcastle Falcons
INVITED – Two clubs to be confirmed

 

The Anger of Pricing Amidst a Cost of Living Crisis: Irish Rugby’s World Cup Warm-Up Ticket Controversy

As the cost of living continues to rise, individuals and families around the world find themselves burdened by mounting financial pressures.

In such a climate, it becomes essential for businesses and organizations to exhibit empathy and restraint in their pricing strategies.

However, recent events in the world of Irish rugby have sparked outrage and highlighted the growing disconnect between the financial struggles of everyday people and the exorbitant costs associated with attending sporting events. The decision to charge double the price for tickets to World Cup warm-up matches has sparked widespread criticism, leaving many questioning the fairness and ethics of such pricing.

The Pricing Disparity:

One of the most striking examples of this pricing controversy is the comparison between Irish Rugby warm-up game Ireland v England in the Aviva Stadium and a match between Scotland and France at Murrayfield.

While fans attending the Irish warm-up matches face a hefty price tag of €110 for a ticket behind the goals, supporters at Murrayfield paid a mere £50 for a similar seat and only £20 to see Wales play South Africa.

The significant contrast in prices between these events raises questions about the justification for such discrepancies and the impact they have on fans’ ability to afford attendance.

Impact on Fans:

For many passionate rugby fans, attending matches is an integral part of their sporting experience. However, the inflated ticket prices risk excluding a significant portion of the fanbase.

Hotel prices in Dublin are at huge prices and now with inflated tickets it could cost €500 to go to Dublin watch the match and stay over.

In a time when the cost of living crisis affects people’s budgets and disposable income, the decision to increase prices seems ill-timed and out of touch with the financial reality faced by many. The affordability of sporting events should be a priority, enabling fans from all walks of life to enjoy the thrill and camaraderie of live matches.

The Potential Backlash:

Given the substantial price difference between Irish Rugby warm-up games and comparable events, it is not surprising that a significant pushback is expected. Fans, both loyal and casual, are voicing their disappointment and concern over the affordability of tickets. Social media platforms have become an outlet for expressing frustration, with hashtags and posts dedicated to questioning the fairness of the pricing strategy. The potential backlash poses a risk to the reputation and image of Irish Rugby, emphasizing the importance of addressing these concerns.

Finding a Balance:
While it is crucial to acknowledge the financial needs of sports organizations and the costs associated with hosting international events, it is equally important to strike a balance that respects the affordability concerns of fans. Pricing decisions should reflect a genuine understanding of the current cost of living crisis and strive to offer fair and reasonable rates. By adopting a more empathetic approach, sports organizations can foster goodwill among their fanbase and ensure that attending matches remains an inclusive experience.

 

Rugby Championship 2023 Kick-Offs (Irish Time)

The Rugby Championship 2023 is set to enthral fans with its intense matchups between the All Blacks, Pumas, Springboks, and Wallabies.

As a precursor to the Rugby World Cup, this year’s tournament features a condensed schedule of six matches, held in various locations. Read on to find out the match dates, times, and host venues.

In adherence to the tradition of Rugby World Cup years, the regular 12-match tournament has been shortened to a one-round, home or away, six-match competition taking place in July. Additionally, two extra matches, including a second Bledisloe Cup clash and a second encounter between South Africa and Argentina, are scheduled for early August, just after The Rugby Championship. These matches will serve as preparation for the Rugby World Cup, set to kick off in France in September.

Due to the simultaneous occurrence of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand during July and August, finding suitable venues has been a challenging task. Consequently, the New Zealand versus South Africa match will be held at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland. Australia, on the other hand, will play its two home matches at CommBank Stadium in Sydney and the MCG in Melbourne. South Africa’s home matches will take place in Johannesburg and Pretoria, while Argentina will host its home match in Mendoza.

Brendan Morris, the CEO of SANZAAR, expressed confidence in the competitiveness of the tournament despite its reduced length. Acknowledging the significance of the TRC Champions title, he emphasized its value to all the teams. With fans eagerly anticipating the Rugby World Cup, the Rugby Championship provides an exciting preview of the teams from Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

The Rugby Championship 2023 promises to be a captivating event for rugby enthusiasts worldwide. As one of the most prestigious rugby tournaments, it showcases the skills and talents of renowned players. Mark your calendars and be prepared for thrilling encounters between the All Blacks, Pumas, Springboks, and Wallabies.

Match Schedule:
– Saturday 8th July:
– South Africa vs Australia at 16:05 (Irish time)
– Argentina vs New Zealand at 20:10 (Irish time)

– Saturday 15th July:
– New Zealand vs South Africa at 08:05 (Irish time)
– Australia vs Argentina at 10:45 (Irish time)

– Saturday 29th July:
– Australia vs New Zealand at 10:45 (Irish time)
– South Africa vs Argentina at 16:05 (Irish time)

List of countries in each division at the 2023 European Athletics Games

The 2023 European Athletics Team Championships will feature three divisions, each consisting of a group of countries competing against one another.

Click here for list of Irish Athletes at the European Games 

Let’s take a closer look at the breakdown of countries in each division:

1. 1st Division:
– Poland
– Italy
– Great Britain & NI
– Germany
– Spain
– France
– Portugal
– Czech Republic
– Netherlands
– Switzerland
– Türkiye
– Finland
– Sweden
– Greece
– Belgium
– Norway

2. 2nd Division:
– Romania
– Estonia
– Hungary
– Denmark
– Slovenia
– Lithuania
– Bulgaria
– Slovakia
– Latvia
– Croatia
– Iceland
– Serbia
– Cyprus
– Republic of Moldova
– Ukraine
– Luxembourg

3. 3rd Division:
– Bosnia & Herzegovina
– Malta
– Montenegro
– Georgia
– Armenia
– Andorra
– Republic of North Macedonia
– San Marino
– Albania
– AASSE (Athletic Association of Small States of Europe)
– Azerbaijan
– Kosovo
– Austria
– Ireland
– Israel

These divisions allow for fair competition among countries of similar athletic prowess. It provides an opportunity for teams to showcase their talent and strive for success within their respective divisions. The European Athletics Team Championships foster a spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie, while also serving as a platform to assess the strength and progress of athletics across Europe.

List of athletes and schedule of Irish Athletes at 2023 European Games

The Olympic Federation of Ireland has announced the selection of forty-four athletes who will represent Team Ireland at the European Games in Krakow.

This year, Athletics has achieved European Championship status for the first time, along with serving as the European Team Championships.

The competition will take place from June 20th to June 26th at the Silesian Stadium in Chorzow, with Irish athletes competing during the initial three days.

Team Ireland aims to compete in Division Three and strives to earn sufficient points and strong performances to advance to Division Two. The Games will feature a comprehensive athletics program, marking the debut of Athletics Ireland athletes under their new sprint coach, Christian Malcolm.

The Division three events are scheduled for the mornings of June 20th, 21st, and 22nd, with medal presentations in each category taking place on June 26th after athletes from all divisions have competed.

The European Athletics Team Championships groupings for 2023 are as follows:

  • 1st Division: Poland, Italy , Great Britain & NI, Germany , Spain, France, Portugal, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Switzerland, Türkiye, Finland, Sweden, Greece, Belgium, Norway
  • 2nd Division: Romania, Estonia, Hungary, Denmark, Slovenia, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Latvia, Croatia, Iceland, Serbia, Cyprus, Republic of Moldova, Ukraine, Luxembourg
  • 3rd Division: Bosnia & Herzegovina, Malta, Montenegro, Georgia, Armenia, Andorra, Republic of North Macedonia, San Marino, Albania, AASSE (Athletic Association of Small States of Europe), Azerbaijan, Kosovo, Austria, Ireland, Israel

The distribution and listed order of teams was based on the results of the 2021 European Athletics Team Championships.

Team Ireland will showcase both emerging talents in Irish athletics and seasoned athletes like Thomas Barr, Sarah Lavin, Phil Healy, and Israel Olatunde. The team includes athletes participating in various events such as sprints, relays, hurdles, jumps, throws, and more. For six days, athletes from all European federations will compete at the Silesian Stadium, in 37 competitions.

In the first three days we will admire athletes from the 2nd and 3rd divisions, while the last three days of the competition there’s going to be a battle of the elites, fighting for the championship title!

Gavin Noble, the Chef de Mission for Team Ireland in Krakow 2023, expressed delight in collaborating with Athletics Ireland for this important competition. Noble highlighted the significance of this multi-sport environment, particularly for athletes experiencing it for the first time and the boost provided by the presence of experienced Olympians on the team.

Paul McNamara, the Director of High Performance at Athletics Ireland, emphasized the unique team format of the European Team Championships, which sets it apart from other major championships. This event presents an opportunity for emerging athletes to compete alongside established ones, contributing to team success and assessing Ireland’s standing in European Athletics.

The European Games in Krakow, scheduled from June 20th to July 2nd, will feature approximately 120 Irish athletes across seventeen sports. This event, organized by the European Olympic Committees, represents the third edition of the multi-sport competition and will take place in the Krakow-Malopolska region. Team Ireland’s final sport announcement will be made tomorrow during a European Games briefing at the Crowne Plaza.

TEAM IRELAND ATHLETICS ATHLETES:

Israel Olatunde (UCD AC Dublin/Louth) 100m (M), 4 x 100m (M) Relay

Mark Smyth (Raheny Shamrock AC) 200m (M), 4 x 100m (M) Relay

Jack Raftery (UCD A.C., Dublin) 400m (M), Mixed 4 x 400m Relay

James Ezeonu (Leevale AC) 100m H (M)

Thomas Barr (Ferrybank AC/Waterford) 400m H (M), Mixed 4 x 400m Relay

Rocco Zaman-Browne (Dundrum South Dublin AC) 800m (M)

Cathal Doyle (Clonliffe Harriers, Dublin) 1500m (M)

Fearghal Curtin (Youghal A.C.) 5000m (M)

Finley Daly (Sligo A.C.) 3000m SC (M)

David Cussen (Old Abbey AC, Cork) High Jump (M)

Reece Ademola (Leevale AC) Long Jump (M)

Michael Bowler (Swinford AC, Mayo) Pole Vault (M)

Jai Benson (Lagan Valley AC) Triple Jump (M)

Eric Favors (Raheny Shamrock A.C./Ballina – Grandmother) Shot Put (M)

Colin Quirke (Crusaders AC, Dublin) Discus Throw

Sean Mockler (Moycarkey Coolcroo AC, Tipperary) Hammer Throw (M)

Conor Cusack (Lake District A.C., Mayo)Javelin

Oliver Swinney (Speed Development Project Track AC) 4 x 100m (M) Relay

Nelvin Appiah (Longford AC) 4 x 100m (M) Relay

Christopher Sibanda (Clonliffe Harriers, Dublin)4 x 100m (M) Relay

Joseph Ojewumi (Tallaght AC) 4 x 100m (M) Relay

Callum Baird (Ballymena & Antrim AC) Mixed 4 x 400m Relay

Lauren Roy (City of Lisburn) 100m (F), 4 x 100m (F) Relay

Phil Healy (Bandon AC, Cork) 200m (F), 4 x 100m (F) Relay, Mixed 4 x 400m Relay

Sharlene Mawdsley (Newport AC) 400m (F), Mixed 4 x 400m Relay

Sarah Lavin (Emerald AC/Limerick) 100m H (F), 4 x 100m (F) Relay

Kelly McGrory (Tir Chonall AC) 400m H (F), 4 x 400m (F) Relay

Louise Shanahan (Leevale AC) 800m (F)

Sophie O’Sullivan (Ballymore Cobh AC, Cork)1500m (F)

Aoibhe Richardson (Kilkenny City Harriers)5000m (F)

Ava O’Connor (Tullamore Harriers, Offaly)3000m SC (F)

Ruby Millet (St. Abban’s AC, Co. Laois) Long Jump (F)

Saragh Buggy (St. Abban’s AC, Co. Laois)Triple Jump (F)

Sommer Lecky (Finn Valley AC) High Jump (F)

Ellie McCartney (City of Lisburn A.C., Antrim)Pole Vault (F)

Michaela Walsh (Swinford AC, Mayo) Shot Put (F)

Grace Casey (Clonliffe Harriers, Dublin) Javelin (F)

Niamh Fogarty (Raheny Shamrock AC) Discus Throw (F)

Nicola Tuthill (UCD AC/Cork) Hammer Throw (F)

Adeyemi Talabi (Longford AC) 4 x 100m (F) Relay

Joan Healy (Leevale AC) 4 x 100m (F) Relay

Sarah Leahy (Killarney Valley) 4 x 100m (F) Relay

Mollie O’Reilly (Dundrum South Dublin) 4 x 100m (F) Relay

Roisin Harrison (Emerald AC, Limerick) Mixed 4 x 400m Relay

Irish Golfers to Watch and Tee Times for the 2023 US Open Golf

The US Open Golf Championship is one of the most prestigious events in the world of golf, attracting top players from around the globe.

Ireland has a rich golfing heritage and has produced many talented players who have made a mark on the international stage. In this article, we will highlight some of the notable Irish golfers participating in the 2023 US Open and provide their tee times for the tournament.

Shane Lowry – Tee Time: 3:40pm Thursday:

Shane Lowry, the 2019 Open Championship winner, has established himself as one of Ireland’s top golfers. With a solid game and a knack for performing well in major tournaments,

Lowry is undoubtedly a player to watch at the 2023 US Open. His tee time on Thursday is set for 3:40pm, and fans will be eagerly awaiting his performance on the course.

Séamus Power – Tee Time: 4:35pm Thursday:

Séamus Power has been steadily making his mark on the professional golf circuit. With impressive performances in recent years, including a win at the Barbasol Championship in 2021, Power has proven his ability to compete at the highest level.

His tee time on Thursday is scheduled for 4:35pm, and spectators can expect him to bring his A-game to the US Open.

Matthew McClean – Tee Time: 4:35pm Thursday:

Matthew McClean is a rising star in Irish golf and will be making his debut at the US Open in 2023. While relatively new to the professional scene, McClean has shown great potential and has been making steady progress in his game.

He will be teeing off alongside Séamus Power at 4:35pm on Thursday, and golf enthusiasts will be keen to see how he performs on this grand stage.

Padraig Harrington – Tee Time: 8:59pm Thursday:

Padraig Harrington is a seasoned Irish golfer with an impressive track record. As a three-time major champion, including back-to-back wins at The Open Championship in 2007 and 2008, Harrington’s experience and skill make him a formidable competitor.

Fans can catch him in action with a tee time of 8:59pm on Thursday.

Rory McIlroy – Tee Time: 9:54pm Thursday:

Rory McIlroy is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most successful and celebrated golfers. With four major championship victories under his belt, McIlroy has firmly established himself as one of the world’s top players.

Known for his powerful drives and smooth swing, McIlroy’s tee time on Thursday is scheduled for 9:54pm, and golf enthusiasts will be eagerly anticipating his performance especially after his stance against LIV golf.

Conclusion:

The 2023 US Open Golf Championship promises to be an exciting event, and Irish golfers will undoubtedly play a significant role in the competition. With Shane Lowry, Séamus Power, Matthew McClean, Padraig Harrington, and Rory McIlroy leading the Irish contingent, fans will have plenty to look forward to.

Whether it’s the experienced champions or the emerging talents, Irish golfers are expected to leave their mark on the tournament. So mark your calendars and get ready to witness some exceptional golfing talent from Ireland at the US Open!

Is There a Potential Messi Deal For MLS?

Lionel Messi, one of the world’s biggest soccer stars, is set to make a move this summer as his contract with PSG comes to an end. The anticipation surrounding his next club is high, with reports suggesting options from Saudi Arabia, Europe, and the United States. Several Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs in the United States have been closely monitoring Messi for quite some time. A potential move to the MLS would not only boost the team’s prospects but also have implications for US sports betting and US online casinos. Will this summer present the best opportunity for an MLS club to secure the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner? Let’s explore the chances of Messi joining the MLS this season.

Why Is Messi Leaving PSG?

When Lionel Messi signed for PSG in the summer of 2021 on a free transfer from his boyhood club Barcelona, there was an expectation that the club would end their long wait for Champions League success. However, from that standpoint, the move has been a little bit of a disaster. PSG have been no closer to winning the Champions League since Messi’s arrival, and that has been a key factor in the Parisians looking to offload one of their biggest earners.

However, Messi’s future in Paris almost certainly came to an end after his decision to disobey team orders following a Ligue 1 loss to travel to Saudi Arabia for commercial reasons. Messi’s decision led to the Argentinean being suspended for two weeks, meaning that he missed two of the final three matches of the season. However, PSG’s weak stance on the superstar led to Messi returning to training before his suspension had officially come to an end.

Could A Move To The MLS Be On The Cards?

The MLS has been long-term admirers of the potential of bringing Messi to the American competition. It has been reported by MLS commissioner Don Garber that the league was open to making a David Beckham-like deal in order to bring the star to the competition. Beckham’s arrival in the MLS was one of the biggest signings in the history of the competition, and it immediately allowed the tournament to attract viewers from across the globe.

Beckham’s Inter Miami has long been considered the front-runner in any deal to sign Messi, and the latest reports have claimed that a deal involving the MLS side and Barcelona could be a likely scenario. It has been reported that Inter Miami could sign the superstar on a free transfer, before then loaning out the 35-year-old to Barcelona on a two-year deal.

That move would mean that while Messi would be signed to an MLS club, American fans wouldn’t get to see the Argentinean in action for Miami until at least 2025. A deal like this would certainly capture Messi’s attention, as he would likely prefer a move back to Barcelona with the aim of winning at least one more Champions League title with his boyhood club.

Is A Move To Saudi Arabia More Likely?

The dreams of MLS fans of seeing Messi in the competition do appear incredibly slim at this stage, as there are growing reports that a move to the Saudi Pro League is the most likely destination for the Argentinean. A deal to take Messi to Saudi Arabia is likely to make the World Cup winner the highest-paid player in the history of the sport, and reports have claimed that a switch to Al-Hilal is extremely close, and an official announcement could be made within days.

The decision to move to Saudi Arabia will see the competition attract yet another superstar in the world of soccer, with Cristiano Ronaldo already competing in the competition with Al-Nassr. Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema is also on the verge of a switch to Saudi Arabia after ending his 14-year career with Real Madrid. It is rumored that the five-time Champions League winner is set to sign an eye-watering deal with Al-Ittihad.

Conclusion

Messi’s future will be one of the biggest storylines to follow throughout the early days of the summer transfer window this year. But, at this stage, it looks incredibly unlikely that the Argentinean will be moving to the MLS. While a return to Barcelona is his preferred destination, it would appear as though Messi is set to accept Saudi Arabia’s offer and become the world’s most expensive player in the Middle East.

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