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Preview: Ireland U17s set for historic World Cup opener

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 9:04 GMT by RTE Online

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Ireland’s U17s Prepare for a Historic World Cup Opener

The Irish U17 squad has been summoned from the green fields of Dublin to the sun‑baked pitches of Peru, where the FIFA U17 World Cup is set to begin on 4 November 2025. With a debut on the world stage that has never before occurred, the team’s preparations are a blend of youthful exuberance, tactical discipline, and a collective sense of national pride.

The Significance of the Opener

Ireland’s participation marks a watershed moment for the country’s youth football. Though the national teams have tasted success at senior levels, the U17 side has never competed in a FIFA world‑tournament. According to the preview, the opener against host nation Peru will be a moment that “defines the next generation of Irish football” and is an “official milestone in the country’s footballing history.” The article notes that the opening match will take place at the Estadio Nacional in Lima, a venue that has hosted major international fixtures and offers a platform for Irish talent to showcase itself to a global audience.

Squad Selection and Key Players

The squad was unveiled on 1 November, following a rigorous selection process that spanned the nation’s four major football academies. The preview highlights six standout players who are expected to anchor the squad’s ambitions.

1. Eoin O’Neill (Midfield) – A product of Shelbourne’s youth academy, O’Neill’s vision and passing accuracy earned him a spot as the team’s creative fulcrum. In a recent interview, he expressed excitement about “leading the midfield and ensuring that the team stays organized under pressure.”

2. Ryan McCarthy (Forward) – McCarthy, who currently plays for St. Patrick’s Athletic, has been on a goal‑scoring streak in the U19 league. The preview cites his “clinical finishing” as a key asset in breaking down Peru’s defensive line.

3. Cian Gallagher (Defender) – Trained at the UCD football program, Gallagher is celebrated for his aerial prowess and tackling discipline. He is expected to lead the backline against Peru’s potent attack.

4. Molly Doyle (Goalkeeper) – The standout keeper of the U17 squad, Doyle has already made headlines with her “commanding presence” and “reflex saves” in pre‑tournament friendlies.

5. Liam O’Connor (Midfield) – A versatile player who can switch from defensive midfield to a more advanced role, O’Connor’s work rate and stamina are seen as a vital component for Ireland’s tactical flexibility.

6. Seamus McGuire (Forward) – McGuire’s speed and dribbling skills were highlighted in the preview as a threat to the Peruvian backline, providing a counter‑attack option.

These players were selected in part by the coaching staff to provide a balanced blend of experience and youthful energy. A link in the preview article, which was followed for further detail, pointed to a feature on the squad’s training camps in Dublin’s national training centre. The feature reported that the players have been engaging in “intensive tactical drills, simulated match scenarios, and fitness regimens tailored to cope with the high altitude of Lima.”

Coaching Staff and Tactical Approach

Under the guidance of head coach Andy Smith, who has previously led Ireland’s U15 and U16 teams, the U17 squad has been preparing a pragmatic approach. Smith, who was quoted in the preview as stating that “the focus is on organization, disciplined defending, and quick transitions,” has implemented a 4‑4‑2 formation with an emphasis on maintaining shape and exploiting the flanks.

Assistant coaches include former Irish internationals Mark O’Connell and Aoife O’Leary, who have both played pivotal roles in talent identification and match analysis. A secondary link in the article directed to an interview with Coach Smith, where he outlined the team’s strategy: “We will play a compact defense, look for quick counter‑attacks, and use the full width of the pitch to stretch the Peruvian side.”

Preparation and Training Regimes

The preview also described the intensive pre‑tournament preparation undertaken by the squad. Players have been attending a 10‑day training camp in County Wicklow, where they engaged in high‑intensity interval training, technical drills, and a 90‑minute friendly against a mixed‑nationality side. The friendly, scheduled for 27 October, saw the Irish U17s secure a 2‑1 win over a combined U18 team from Spain and the United Kingdom. The article noted that the match helped the team adjust to the high‑altitude conditions and test their tactical plan.

Nutritionists, sports psychologists, and physiotherapists have also been integrated into the squad’s routine. According to a link to a “behind‑the‑scenes” feature, the team’s nutritional plan focuses on high‑carbohydrate meals to sustain energy, while psychological support centers on building resilience and coping with the pressure of representing Ireland on an international platform.

Historical Context and Expectations

While Ireland has yet to make a mark at the U17 World Cup, the preview article placed the 2025 squad’s qualification within the broader context of the country’s growing football infrastructure. The article cited the successes of the U20 and U21 teams as proof of a pipeline that is now producing players capable of competing at the world level. It also mentioned that Ireland’s debut in the tournament could serve as a catalyst for further investment in youth development.

The article concludes that the team’s aspirations are “not just about winning but about demonstrating the quality and potential of Irish football.” The opening match against Peru will be a litmus test for the players’ ability to adapt to a new environment, manage the physical demands of international play, and execute a coherent game plan.

Key Takeaways

• Ireland’s U17 team is set to make its FIFA world‑cup debut at the 2025 tournament in Peru, a historic moment for Irish football.
• Six players—Eoin O’Neill, Ryan McCarthy, Cian Gallagher, Molly Doyle, Liam O’Connor, and Seamus McGuire—have been identified as key performers.
• Head coach Andy Smith’s tactical philosophy centers on organized defense and rapid counter‑attacks, backed by a robust training regime and a comprehensive support team.
• The squad’s preparation has involved intensive training camps, friendly matches, and specialized nutrition and psychological programs.
• The opening match against host Peru will test the squad’s resilience, adaptability, and tactical execution, while also symbolizing the progress of Ireland’s youth football development.

As the match draws nearer, all eyes will be on Dublin’s brightest young talents to see if they can translate their domestic prowess into success on the world stage.