In a momentous achievement for Irish football, the Republic of Ireland’s Under-17 national team has qualified for the 2025 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, marking the first time the men’s youth squad has reached this prestigious tournament. Manager Colin O’Brien’s talented young squad sealed their historic qualification through a compelling performance in the UEFA European U17 Championship Elite Round.
The journey to Qatar was nothing short of dramatic, with the team ultimately securing their place by finishing among the four best runners-up across the seven qualifying groups in League A. A comprehensive 5-0 victory against Iceland proved pivotal, featuring standout performances from rising stars like Benfica’s Jaden Umeh, who netted two goals, and contributions from Billy Canny, Finn Sherlock, and Charles Akinrintoyo.
While narrowly missing out on direct qualification for the European Championships after finishing second in their group—just a point behind Belgium—the young Irish team demonstrated remarkable resilience. Their qualification comes exactly 14 years after the Ireland Women’s U17 team first achieved this milestone in 2010.
The upcoming 48-team tournament, scheduled from November 3rd to 27th in Qatar, represents a significant milestone for these young footballers. Players from clubs across Ireland and Europe, including Southampton, Newcastle United, Benfica, and Shamrock Rovers, will represent their nation on the global stage.
O’Brien’s squad showcased their potential throughout the qualifying rounds, with impressive wins against Poland and a dominant performance against Iceland. The team’s depth and talent suggest a bright future for Irish football, with these young players potentially forming the backbone of the senior national team in years to come.
The qualification is not just a sporting achievement but a source of national pride, highlighting the continued development of football talent in Ireland and offering hope and excitement for football fans across the country.