In fact, McCarthy is one of Ireland’s greatest ever managers having led the team to the Round of 16 in the 2002 FIFA World Cup and held a 42% win ratio overall.

Before stepping up into management, he was also a fine player. Known as ‘Captain Fantastic’, he led Ireland to 11 wins from 22 games as skipper. Overall he played 57 times for Ireland.

Now, he is back on the sidelines leading the way but let’s take a look at how he fared in his first spell as Ireland manager...

                                           P               W        D            L             F                A

World Cup                         28             14        10            4             55            20

European Championship  12               5          3            4             18            13

US Cup                                6               2          3             1             11              8

Friendlies                           22              8          4           10            28            25

TOTAL                             68             29        20           19           112            66

Home                                 35             18          9             8             58            26

Away                                25              8          6           11            39            32

Neutral                                 8               3          5             0             15              8

TOTAL                             68             29        20           19           112            66

First Match: Ireland 0-2 v Russia, Friendly, Lansdowne Road, 27/03/96
Record Victory: Ireland 5-0 v Liechtenstein, WCQ, Eschen, 31/08/96; Ireland 5-0 v Liechtenstein, WCQ, Lansdowne Road, 21/05/97; Ireland 5-0 v Malta, ECQ, Lansdowne Road, 14/10/98
Players Used: 65 
Debutants: 42 
Most Appearances: Gary Breen, 50
Leading Goalscorer: Robbie Keane, 14
Captain Most Often: Roy Keane, 20 

The event took place at the Exhibition with an opportunity to hear Brian’s story which saw him retire from the game in 2017 due to mental health illness.

Darran Coyle Garde from Pieta House in Cork opened the evening and spoke about the services available through Pieta House and encouraged attendees to sign up for their main fundraiser Darkness into Light, which takes place in locations all around the world on May 11.

Lenihan, who represented the Republic of Ireland at underage level up to U-21's, spoke about his battle with mental health illness and encouraged people to speak up and seek help.

"If speaking at the event here leads to one person getting help or becoming more aware of their own mental health and well-being, it will have been a worthwhile exercise," said 24-year-old Lenihan.

"With my own illness, I am lucky to have gotten a second chance and hope to use it to help raise awareness of the great work being done by Pieta House and others. Football can be a very uncompromising industry and difficult environment for young players as they develop. I would encourage all players, parents and members of the public not to be afraid to speak up and seek help."

Sports Psychologist James Claffey joined the discussion and spoke of his admiration for Brian and the importance of mental health amongst footballers and sports stars.

"I think it’s fantastic that the FAI are getting behind evenings like tonight and taking initiative in being proactive about players mental well-being," said Claffey.

"Society can be naive in relation to mental illness until its on our own doorstep. Brian has shown amazing bravery to make his story public with his own battle with mental illness and hopefully he will pave the pathway for young people suffering in silence. Showing its "Okay not to be Okay"

Attendees included members from Lenihan’s former clubs College Corinthians and Cork City and his former school Presentation Brothers College. To find out more about the services offered by Pieta House, visit pieta.ie

Pieta House have a 24/7 phone line for anyone looking to talk – 1800 247 247.

The National Football Exhibition finishes up in Cork on Sunday, March 24 at 15:00. For more information about the exhibition, download The National Football Exhibition app from the App Store or Google Play Store.

Tom Mohan's side recorded a fantastic 5-0 win over Romania on Wednesday, and the Head Coach saw Azerbaijan earn a scoreless draw with Russia later that day.

There is a clean bill of health in the camp, with only captain Aaron Bolger set to miss the game through suspension, after picking up a yellow card in Wednesday's win.

Speaking from Krasnodar in Russia, Mohan said he had learned a lot from Azerbaijan's draw.

"Any team in the Elite Round are going to be high-quality opponents. They were very well organised, and have a number of quality attacking players. They will be difficult opponents tomorrow.

A win over Azerbaijan will leave Ireland in a very strong position to qualify for the Finals in Armenia this summer, but Mohan wants the team to be focused on the next task in front of them instead of looking too far ahead.

"When you come to the Elite Phase, the most important thing is to leave the team with a chance to qualify going into the final game. We can't look too far ahead, and can only focus on tomorrow's game.

"The players' attitudes have been excellent this week. They've prepared well for tomorrow."

Republic of Ireland Under-19 Squad
Goalkeepers: Brian Maher (St Patrick's Athletic), George McMahon (Burnley)
Defenders: Andy Lyons (Bohemians), Tom Gaston (Bordeaux), Mark McGuinness (Arsenal), Oisin McEntee (Newcastle United), Jack James (Luton Town), Kameron Ledwidge (Southampton)
Midfielders: Niall Morahan (Sligo Rovers), Aaron Bolger (Shamrock Rovers), Jason Knight (Derby County), Luca Connell (Bolton Wanderers), Will Smallbone (Southampton), Conor Grant (Sheffield Wednesday), Richie O'Farrell (UCD)
Forwards: Ali Reghba (Bohemians), Will Ferry (Southampton), Festy Ebosele (Derby County), Tyriek Wright (Aston Villa), Jonathan Afolabi (Southampton)

2019 UEFA European Under-19 Championship - Elite Round Qualifiers
March 20: Republic of Ireland 5-0 Romania
March 23: Republic of Ireland v Azerbaijan, Kuban Stadium, Krasnodar, KO 12:00 (9:00 Irish Time)
March 26: Republic of Ireland v Russia, FC Krasnodar Academy Stadium, KO 17:00 (14:00 Irish Time)

Confidence was good amongst the squad as they reflected on their 1-1 draw with Norway on Wednesday evening.

But attentions have now well and truly shifted to Germany, as the Irish squad prepare to take them on in the National Performance Centre, Edinburgh - the game has a 12noon kick-off.

Bar Emily Kraft, who went off injured in the Norway game, Head Coach Colin Bell has a full squad to chose from for the middle fixture of this European Elite Round qualifying campaign.

And Bell is feeling optimistic about what his team have learned, and how they are progressing, after their solid display in the first fixture.

"We definitely should have won the game. Reflecting on it now, the performance was good, at times, very good," said Bell.

"The girls also realise that the chances were there, and they could also tell that there was a big improvement in their performance and that they were quite capable of playing some good football against one of the top nations. That was very pleasing. What we have to work on is being clinical, being switched on all the time in defending and attacking. But as I said after the game that is characteristic of the age group. It's not a negative, it's just a natural fact. The girls will improve in that area."

Having reflected on the Norway game, Bell's and his squad's, attention quickly shifted to Germany, and everybody is excited about the challenge ahead.

He said: "We're looking forward to the next game now. That's the thing about these kinds of tournaments, you don't have much time to dwell on the last game. We have to pick out what's important and we've done that. Obviously we know that it's going to be a really tough task.

"Over the last few years, at this age group, it really has been Germany, Spain, sometimes France, that have dominated. But the Germans are always there or there abouts. The game against Norway was very high tempo so that will have taken it's toll. And also, the indoor facility here is fantastic but it is astro-turf and that is a different game, it does take it out of you. We've got to be awake all the time.

"In these kind of games, if you make one little mistake or have a positional slip, you are asking for trouble. Germany have the quality to expose every team. But bar Emily Kraft, everybody is fit and raring to go."

The camp was dealt a blow when news came through yesterday that Kraft's injury in the Norway match was a damaged anterior cruciate ligament. 

"The mood was a bit subdued yesterday because unfortunately we found out that Emily Kraft has an ACL injury. That means a long process of an operation and then rehab. It's very, very unfortunate. But Emily is a fantastic girl that has fantastic character. She's upbeat this morning, the girls are taking care of her. She wants to stay in the camp and we're involving her in the process of analysing the German team. Nobody knows the German team better than Emily," said Bell.

And Kraft's team-mates are more than looking forward to the game tomorrow, as 16-year-old, Peamount player, Orla Prendergast, explained.

She said: "I'm really excited for the game. It's a fantastic challenge to play against Germany, such a big strong footballing nation that everybody would recognise as being one of the best. It will be a tough challenge and we will have to work very hard, and work together, in order to get a result. It'll be tough and we know that, but I definitely think we are up for the challenge."

Prendergast only recently returned to the Irish squad after suffering a hamstring and knee injury last year in Serbia.

"For me personally, it was really good to get back on the pitch. I have had a tough time in past camps with injuries, so getting back out there was a really good feeling. I was nervous to start, it was my first international game in a while because of the injuries, but once I got into it, it was so good. There's nothing like playing for your country."

And she also feels positive about the performance the team put in in the first game.

She said: "The girls and I definitely gave a good account of ourselves. We knew Norway was going to be a tough game, they're physical, strong and quick. But we definitely played well and did well with our result. And we could even have got the win. I think it's good though to be always looking for more and always be looking to improve."

Republic of Ireland WU17 Squad
Goalkeepers: Courtney Maguire (Shelbourne), Maeve Williams (Wexford Youths)
Defenders: Therese Kinnevey (Galway Women's), Eabha O'Mahony (Cork City), Ellie Ferguson (Shelbourne), Shauna Brennan (Galway Women's), Mia Dodd (Shelbourne), Zara Foley (Cork City)
Midfielders: Rebecca Cooke (Shelbourne), Aoibheann Clancy (Limerick), Orla Prendergast (Peamount United), Della Doherty (Peamount United), Erin McLaughlin (Sea Rovers FC), Taylor White (Shelbourne)
Forwards: Lauren Egbuloniu (Cork City), Sophie Liston (Limerick), Emily Whelan (Shelbourne), Jessica Ziu (Shelbourne), Blessing Kingsley (Wexford Youths)

UEFA Women's European Under-17 Championship Elite Round - Group Four
March 20: Republic of Ireland 1-1 Norway
March 23: Germany v Republic of Ireland, 12pm, National Performance Centre, Edinburgh
March 26: Scotland v Republic of Ireland, 2.30pm, Ainslie Park, Edinburgh

A goal on the hour-mark from striker Eetu Rissanen was enough to give the visitors the win, ahead of Monday afternoon’s match in Tallaght Stadium.

Speaking after the match, Head Coach Colin O’Brien, said there are areas to improve on ahead of Monday.

“There were very few clear chances in the first-half. Finland’s goal came from us trying to build from the back. We lost possession of the ball and they capitalised on the mistake,” O’Brien revealed.

“We didn’t perform to the standards we set ourselves. The team are a lot better than what they showed tonight. We have to the chance now on Monday to get our performances back to the standards we know we are capable of."

As part of preparations for May’s UEFA Under-17 European Championships, both teams took part in a penalty shootout. Tallaght Stadium will also host a penalty shootout after Monday’s game.

Republic of Ireland: Harry Halwax, Seamas Keogh (capt), James Furlong, Anselmo Garcia MacNulty, Joe Hodge (Toby Owens 88), Matt Everitt (Brandon Holt 62), Conor Carty (Sean Kennedy 62), Ronan McKinley (Charlie McCann 46), Joshua Giurgi, Sean McEvoy (Mipo Odubeko 62), Timi Sobowale

Finland: Matia Niemela, Juho Lehtiranta, Tony Miettinen, Ville Koski, Juho Kilo, Samuel Anini Jr (Sampo Ala 80), Santeri Vaananen (capt), Eetu Rissanen (Martin Salin 80), Naatan Skytta (Doni Arifi 85), Juho Ojanen (Pauli Katajamaki 70), Kaarlo Rintamaki (Samuel Uusitalo 85)

Goals from Tyreik Wright, Jason Knight (pictured above) and captain Jonathan Afolabi proved enough for Tom Mohan’s side, as the team moved one step closer to this July’s Finals Tournament in Armenia.

Wright gave Ireland the lead just before the break. His initial header from a corner was blocked, but Wright slotted home the rebound to give Ireland the lead.

Mohan’s side had the chance to double the lead after the break, but Will Smallbone’s penalty hit the crossbar. Ireland did though double their lead on the hour mark, when Knight’s shot beat Azerbaijani goalkeeper Nijat Mehbaliyev.

Azerbaijan pulled a goal back with 20-minutes left when Kamran Guliyev scored from close range, after Brian Maher saved Turan Valizada's penalty.

The three points were assured in the final five-minutes when Afolabi took advantage of some slack defending to cooly slot the ball home.

Speaking after the match, Head Coach Mohan was impressed with his side’s grit throughout the game.

“It was a different game to the win against Romania. Azerbaijan were very difficult to break down. We have seven Under-18s and one Under-17 player in the squad today. For such young players, they showed great composure”, Mohan said.

“Russia are our next opponents. The focus is now on them getting recovered and re-energised. It was a tough, hard, bruising encounter today. The lads showed a lot of character.”  

Ireland conclude their campaign on Tuesday afternoon against Russia, knowing a draw may be enough to qualify for Armenia in July.

Republic of Ireland: Brian Maher; Andy Lyons, Oisin McEntee, Jack James (Mark McGuinness 90+1), Kameron Ledwidge; Luca Connell (Niall Morahan 90+3), Will Smallbone (Conor Grant 90+1), Jason Knight; Tyreik Wright (Ali Reghba 79), Jonathan Afolabi, Will Ferry (Festy Ebosele 90+3)

Azerbaijan: Nijat Mehbaliyev; Rauf Huseynli (90+2), Ibragim Huseinov, Elnur Ibragimov, Vusal Masimov; Tural Bayramov (Musa Gurbanli 66), Turan Valizada, Shakir Seyidov, Kamran Guliyev (Murad Mahmudov 78); Serhat Tasdemir (Rustam Nuruyev 66); Emil Gasimov (Elvin Jafarguliyev 46)

Republic of Ireland Under-19 Squad
Goalkeepers: Brian Maher (St Patrick's Athletic), George McMahon (Burnley)
Defenders: Andy Lyons (Bohemians), Tom Gaston (Bordeaux), Mark McGuinness (Arsenal), Oisin McEntee (Newcastle United), Jack James (Luton Town), Kameron Ledwidge (Southampton)
Midfielders: Niall Morahan (Sligo Rovers), Aaron Bolger (Shamrock Rovers), Jason Knight (Derby County), Luca Connell (Bolton Wanderers), Will Smallbone (Southampton), Conor Grant (Sheffield Wednesday), Richie O'Farrell (UCD)
Forwards: Ali Reghba (Bohemians), Will Ferry (Southampton), Festy Ebosele (Derby County), Tyriek Wright (Aston Villa), Jonathan Afolabi (Southampton) 

2019 UEFA European Under-19 Championship - Elite Round Qualifiers
March 20: Republic of Ireland 5-0 Romania
March 23: Republic of Ireland 3-1 Azerbaijan
March 26: Republic of Ireland v Russia, FC Krasnodar Academy Stadium, KO 17:00 (14:00 Irish Time)

After a defeat to the same opposition earlier this week, Ireland were unlucky not to earn the win today, with numerous chances for both sides.

Head Coach Andy Reid used all 18 players over the course of two games, with goalkeeper Barry Jones making his debut for the Under-18s in the second-half.

Republic of Ireland: Sean Bohan (Bobby Jones 61), Jaden Charles (Shadrach Ogie 61), Adam O'Reilly, Ryan Cassidy, Barry Coffey (capt) (Louie Watson 84), Callum Thompson, Max Murphy, Ray O'Sullivan, Sean Brennan (Ross Tierney 86), Andrew Spain, Donal Higgins (Louie Watson 89)

However, the Irish side can take a lot of positives from the Elite Round qualifying game, as they held their own for long periods of the tie at the National Performance Centre.

Jessica Ziu and Emily Whelan had both had chances for Colin Bell's side in the first half hour before Germany took the lead when Nicole Woldmann got on the end of a Gia Corley corner.

Despite Germany having more chances before the break, the score remained 1-0 at half-time.

Both sides made changes at the start of the second-half, with Lauren Egbuloniu coming on for forward, Blessing Kingsley.

Irish keeper Courtney Maguire had plenty of work on her hands in the second half, but the Shelbourne player put in a solid display making good saves throughout.

But on the 62nd minute, Natasha Kowalski followed up on a missed Sophie Weidauer shot and put her side ahead 2-0.

Sophie Liston and Erin McLaughlin were brought into the fold for Egbuloniu and Jessica Ziu, but Ireland couldn't get one back and Germany ran out 2-0 winners on the afternoon.

Speaking straight after the game, Bell was feeling positive about the performance of his young team.

"I thought in the first half, the game was very even. We were tactically very good and had two very good chances where we could have had two goals. However, unfortunately after that we conceded from another corner after an individual error, which was obviously disappointing," said Bell.

"We then had a difficult task in the second half as they were already ahead. We kept it tight, and frustrated the Germans at times, but we needed to capitalise on those chances we had in the first halt. I think we put in a very good performance against one of the top teams in Europe.

"They won the competition two years ago and always do well at this level. So we can take a lot from the game and our squad will have learned a lot about how well they can do in these circumstances."

Thoughts now move to final game of the group, where Scotland will be the opponents at Ainslie Park on Tuesday, March 26 at 14:30.

Republic of Ireland: Courtney Maguire; Therese Kinnevey, Shauna Brennan, Eabha O'Mahony, Orla Prendergast, Emily Whelan, Aoibheann Clancy, Blessing Kingsley (Lauren Egbuloniu 46 (Sophie Liston 84)), Jessica Ziu (Erin McLaughlin 64), Rebecca Cooke, Zara Foley.

Germany: Pauline Carlotta Nelles; Jule Brand, Julia Pollak (Samantha Kühne 78), Madeleine Steck, Emilie Bernhardt, Lisanne Gräwe, Nicole Woldmann (Carlotta Wamser 46), Spohie Weidauer, Gia Corley (Livinia Seifert 79), Gentiana Fetaj (Marleen Rohde 59), Leonie Weber (Marleen Rohde 59).

Referee: Ifeoma Kulmala (Finland).

The Republic of Ireland began their UEFA EURO 2020 Qualifying with a 1-0 win over Gibraltar, in Victoria Stadium.

A goal from Jeff Hendrick was enough to give manager Mick McCarthy the win in his first match back as Republic of Ireland manager.

Hendrick’s goal came from some good play down the left. David McGoldrick played the ball into the Dubliner’s feet as his shot easily beat Gibraltar goalkeeper Kyle Goldwin.

In a dominant performance, chances came at a premium for the visitors with the likes of Shane Duffy and David McGoldrick going close.

Despite strong resistance from the home side, Darren Randolph was never tested on a strong night for Mick McCarthy’s men.

The Republic of Ireland return to action on Tuesday night against Georgia in Aviva Stadium. Tickets are available for the game at fai.ie/tickets

Man of the Match: Conor Hourihane

Gibraltar: Kyle Goldwin; John Sergeant, Louie Annesley (Adam Priestley 64), Roy Chipolina (captain), Joseph Chipolina; Anthony Hernandez (Alain Pons 77), Anthony Bardon, Liam Walker, Jayce Olivero; Tjay De Barr, Lee Casciaro

Republic of Ireland: Darren Randolph; Seamus Coleman (capt), Shane Duffy, Richard Keogh, Enda Stevens; Matt Doherty (Robbie Brady 56), Jeff Hendrick, Conor Hourihane, James McClean; David McGoldrick, Sean Maguire (Harry Arter 71)

Referee: Anastasios Papapetrou (GRE)

Stephen Kenny's side start their campaign at Tallaght Stadium against Luxembourg, with kick-off at 5pm. Over 5,000 supporters are expected to attend the match to witness Ireland's next generation under their new manager. 

Elbouzedi has received his first U-21 call-up following his move to SSE Airtricity League Premier Division side Waterford this year and has thoroughly enjoyed his move back to Ireland. 

"It's been great. The league is full of young players and the standard is really high so it's been a great move for me so far," said Elbouzedi. 

"Waterford and Alan Reynolds, in particular, have shown real faith in me, bringing me back over and now it has led to my first U-21 call-up, I'm really happy. 

"When I got the call-up, I was buzzing. It's a huge honour and it's been a great week so far, and we're looking forward to the game."

The 20-year old is one of nine SSE Airtricity League players involved in the 22-man squad who've been selected in Kenny's first competitive squad as Ireland U-21 manager. 

Having trained with the squad this week, Elbouzedi has praised the standard of the squad and has enjoyed working under new manager Kenny.

"The quality in the squad is really exciting. Most of us have already played together in the under-age teams and there has been a great buzz about training throughout the week," Elbouzedi continued. 

"It's really important we get off to a good start and three points against Luxembourg. We're really hoping to get to play in front of a big crowd in Tallaght and to see so many people talking about the game is great. 

"We've got to start the campaign with three points and we're really looking forward to the match. To be part of this new group is a real honour and I can't wait to step out there and play in that green jersey."

Supporters are advised to arrive at Tallaght Stadium early due to the crowd expected. Ticket collections will be available from 3pm from the Ticketmaster van outside Tallaght Stadium's main reception. Parking will be available on level three at the Square Tallaght, opposite the stadium.

Accompanied by two of the world's leading freestylers, Liv Cooke and Tobias Becs, Skillzy showed off a few moves to the 55,000 crowd ahead of the European Qualifier between the Netherlands and Germany.

"Being able to take the beauty of freestyling, street football and panna to football fans all over Europe is a really special opportunity," says Liv, an English former world champion and Together #WePlayStrong ambassador.

"Whether it's playing in the park or on the world stage, whether it is football or freestyling, it's about expressing yourself with the ball at your feet."

Your chance to get involved

People from all 12 UEFA EURO 2020 host nations are now invited to follow Liv's advice and show what they can do: upload a videoof skills that best represent your host city and you could bag a role during the finals!

Liv and Tobias will shortlist the entries for a public vote when two people (one male, one female) will be chosen for each of the host cities: Amsterdam, Baku, Bilbao, Bucharest, Budapest, Copenhagen, Dublin, Glasgow, London, Munich, Rome and Saint Petersburg.

If you live outside the 12 host countries then you can still get involved. Upload a video and we'll give you a bespoke UEFA EURO 2020 version.

"UEFA EURO 2020 will be one of the biggest sporting events in history, and the involvement of freestyle culture will only enhance it as a spectacle and make sure there is something for everyone," says Tobias, a former European champion from Norway. "This feels like a really exciting crossover moment."

The 24 winners will become local UEFA EURO 2020 Freestylers and will get the chance to display their skills at selected events.

To learn more, please visit www.euro2020.com/your-move

Cork-born Adam Idah notched an impressive brace and UCD forward Neil Farrugia also scored as Ireland won their first game of their UEFA U-21 2021 European Championships qualifying campaign.

Ireland were always in complete control of the contest and will have been disappointed not to have scored more in front of a fantastic crowd of 4,772 at Tallaght Stadium.

Both Idah and Farrugia had chances within the first 10 minutes of the contest to open the scoring, before the Norwich City striker Idah finally did just that past the half-hour. The 18-year old rose highest to powerfully head home Farrugia's corner to put Ireland ahead.

Kenny's side continued the pressure and doubled their lead just five minutes later. Man of the Match Connor Ronan found the perfect pass to slip in the UCD man and he clipped the ball over the keeper to the delight of the home crowd. 

The pressure continued after the break and Ireland extended their lead in the 67th minute. Once again, Ronan broke away past the half-way line to slot in the on-rushing Idah and he powered the ball past the keeper from just inside the area.

That completed the scoring for the home side as they start their campaign with three points and manager Kenny was delighted with the display. 

"I thought we were excellent at times, some fantastic spells of play and I thought the quality of goals were fantastic," said manager Stephen Kenny. 

"We've got things we need to improve on of course, but to see such confidence on the ball from a young group is really encouraging at the start of the campaign. We wanted to get that three points on the board early and now we go to the Toulon Tournament in June, and look forward to it.

"There were many excellent performances across the pitch, we took our goals really well and I really thought we could have scored a few more, but we can learn from that and it's a great start." 

Republic of Ireland: Caoimhin Kelleher (GK), Lee O'Connor, Darragh Leahy, Dara O'Shea, Conor Coventry, Zach Elbouzedi (Michael O'Connor 89), Jayson Molumby (C) (Jamie Lennon 77), Adam Idah (Brandan Kavanagh 89), Connor Ronan (Dan Mandroiu 85), Neil Farrugia (Aaron Drinan 89), Conor Masterson. 

Luxembourg: Tom Ottele (GK), Eric Brandenburger, Ten Held, Pit Simon, Kevin D'Anzico, Luca Duriatti (C) (Dylan Kuete 87), Clayton Duarte, Jan Ostrowski, Mathias Olesen (Loris Tinelli 68), Lucas Prudhomme, Kenan Avdusinovic (Yannick Schaus 61). 

Referee: Timotheos Christofi (CYP)

With the Summer Universiade on the horizon, Yelverton has been busy over the last number of weeks observing players during the latter stages of the CUFL and Third Level Cup competitions. He has selected an experimental squad as he assesses his options before picking his squad for the tournament in Italy.

With a high turnover of graduating students, only three players remain from the squad that defeated France last June in Longford.

The Third Level side last played the Defence Forces in Cork last April with the students running out easy winners against Richie Barber’s side, who are also beginning their own preparations for the World Military Games that will be taking place in China in October.

Colleges and Universities Squad
Goalkeepers: Colin McCabe (TU Dublin), David Coffey (UCC)
Defenders: Jack Tuite (TU Dublin), Maurice Nugent (NUI Galway), Robert Slevin (UCC), Conor Kane (Maynooth University), Luke McNally (Maynooth University), Conor Keeley (Griffith College Dublin), Ronan Young (Queen’s University Belfast)
Midfielders: Pierce Phillips (UCC), Kieran McDaid (IT Carlow), Sean Quinn (TU Dublin), Dean Kelly (IT Carlow), Alan Murphy (UL)
Forwards: Simon Falvey (UCC), Aaron Dobbs (TU Dublin) Michael Scott (TU Dublin), Cillian Duffy (Maynooth University)

Colleges & Universities v Defence Forces
Athlone Town Stadium
Monday 25th March - 2pm

Manager Mick McCarthy is set for his first game at the Aviva Stadium as he will look to make it two wins from the opening two games in the group, following the 1-0 win over Gibraltar. 

Ahead of Tuesday's game, McCarthy confirmed that defender Shane Duffy sat out training and will have a scan on his ankle later today at Monday's press conference. 

"We've got to get the crowd behind us by starting strong. The supporters will want to see us be positive and we obviously want to put on a performance," said McCarthy. 

"That's very important for us, we need to start strong and it will be a difficult game for us. We've got to believe in ourselves though. We've got real quality in the squad, I told them that before training and we've got to bring that into the game.

"I'm really excited about managing in Dublin again. I can't wait to stand there and to hear the national anthem again. These are the best supporters you could hope for and I can't wait to manage in front of them again. 

"My job is to get the team qualified and get the victories we need. Of course, we want to put on a performance, everyone wants to see a fast, attacking Irish team but with seven games to go, we need the win and that is our focus."

Tickets for Ireland v Georgia at Aviva Stadium on March 26 are on sale now. Click here to secure tickets...

Colin O’Brien’s side had the perfect start to the game with Charlie McCann breaking the deadlock in the third minute.

Striker Mipo Odubeko’s shot was blocked in the box and McCann was quickest to pounce with a smart finish.

The visitors would win the game in the final 10 minutes of the first-half with two goals. Sampo Ala took advantage on some lapse defending to equalise for the visitors in the 35th minute.

Finland’s winning goal came three minutes before the break when Naatan Skytta’s free-kick was deflected into the net, giving goalkeeper Jimmy Corcoran no chance.

Speaking after the game, Under-17 Head Coach Colin O’Brien was happy with his side’s performance, despite the defeat.

“We had a really good performance. We didn’t deserve to lose the game. We had the better of the game for the first 30 minutes," O’Brien revealed.

“It was a really good test. We’re happy with the test we got. We didn’t have it all our way, and we won't have it all our way in the tournament.”

“The players will be disappointed with the result, but there is a lot to be proud of from today.”

Republic of Ireland: Jimmy Corcoran; Sean McEvoy (Timi Sobowale 55), Andrew Omobamidele, Luke Turner, James Furlong, Joe Hodge, Seamas Keogh (capt), Sean Kennedy (Matt Everitt 55), Charlie McCann, Conor Carty; Ademipo Odubeko (Ronan McKinley 71).

Finland: Roope Paunio; Lassi Forss, Samuel Uusitalo, Tony Miettinen (capt), Juho Lehitranta; Paul Katajamak (Juho Kilo 76)i, Doni Arifi (Juho Ojanen 76), Ville Koski (Santeri Vaananen 61), Martin Salin (Eetu Rissanen 61); Naatan Skytta (Karlo Rimtamaki 90+1), Sampo Ala (Samuel Anini Jr. 61).

Referee: Alan Carey.

Ireland go into the game having already qualified for this year’s Tournament Finals in Armenia with a game to spare following wins over Romania and Azerbaijan in the Russian city of Krasnodar.

Mohan’s side were the first team to qualify for the tournament and could end the campaign as the only side to win six games from six, should they beat the hosts Russia tomorrow afternoon.

Speaking ahead of the game, Mohan said the mood in the camp is high, after Saturday’s win.

“The lads are in great form. It’s a fantastic achievement by everyone to qualify, knowing how difficult it is to qualify for a Finals. The last couple of years have been so close, but it’s great such a relief to get through.”

Some of the players in Mohan’s squad could play in a European Finals now for the third year in a row, and the Head Coach praised the work done at all levels within underage international football.

“It’s testament to the work being done at underage level. Some of the lads went to two Under-17 Finals with Colin O’Brien in the past two years too.”

With all the success on the field, Mohan was quick to praise all the work done off the field.

“The Technical Staff of Mick Neville, Colin Healy, Dermot O’Neill, Darren McGarry and Mickey Feeney have all been brilliant. Alongside the Medical Staff of Dr. Andrew Delaney, Mick Spillane and Mickey McGlynn, our kitman John Crudden, Team Operations Executive Cathal O’Connor and our Head of Delegation Joe O’Brien, everyone has been fantastic in preparing the team to qualify.”

Ireland’s final match of the Elite Round kicks off tomorrow at 14:00 Irish time against Russia in Krasnodar.

Republic of Ireland Under-19 Squad
Goalkeepers: Brian Maher (St Patrick's Athletic), George McMahon (Burnley)
Defenders: Andy Lyons (Bohemians), Tom Gaston (Bordeaux), Mark McGuinness (Arsenal), Oisin McEntee (Newcastle United), Jack James (Luton Town), Kameron Ledwidge (Southampton)
Midfielders: Niall Morahan (Sligo Rovers), Aaron Bolger (Shamrock Rovers), Jason Knight (Derby County), Luca Connell (Bolton Wanderers), Will Smallbone (Southampton), Conor Grant (Sheffield Wednesday), Richie O'Farrell (UCD)
Forwards: Ali Reghba (Bohemians), Will Ferry (Southampton), Festy Ebosele (Derby County), Tyriek Wright (Aston Villa), Jonathan Afolabi (Southampton)

2019 UEFA European Under-19 Championship - Elite Round Qualifiers
March 20: Republic of Ireland 5-0 Romania
March 23: Republic of Ireland 3-1 Azerbaijan
March 26: Republic of Ireland v Russia, FC Krasnodar Academy Stadium, KO 17:00 (14:00 Irish Time)

McCarthy, whose father Charlie came from Tallow, invited a contingent from the junior football club to watch his first home game in his second spell as Ireland boss.

Excitement is building ahead of the match against Georgia following last Saturday's 1-0 victory against Gibraltar in the opening game of the EURO 2020 qualifiers and McCarthy will have some extra support at Aviva Stadium.

Liam Fraser (pictured above with his family), who has been associated with Brideview United for more than 40 years, said: "It's a fantastic gesture by Mick to provide 54 tickets to the football club for the game versus Georgia. Mick has always had time for our club and for Tallow due to his father's connections and we have kept in contact for many years. 

"We've players of all ages heading to the game and it's an opportunity for a new generation of fans to come and cheer on a Mick McCarthy side. We're glad to see him back."

Mick McCarthy added: "It's a privilege to provide tickets to Brideview United and I hope they thoroughly enjoy the game.

"Tallow is a place that is very close to mine and my family's heart and somewhere I have fond memories of. For a long time the club has done great work in the community and I'm thrilled to see this continue to the present day."

The Irish squad have no doubt that they will have a battle on their hands from the host nation in the third UEFA Elite Round fixture at Ainslie Park, which kicks-off at 14:30 on Tuesday afternoon.

But head coach Colin Bell and his players are confident they can take three points from the game if they play to their abilities and continue the form they have shown so far in the competition.

Jessica Ziu is a concern for Bell ahead of the game with a groin and hip flexor problem, while Emily Kraft remains sidelined with an ACL injury she picked up in the first game against Norway.

Despite the defeat, Bell is taking plenty of positives from Saturday's game against Germany and felt the team did excellently in many spells of the match.

"In the first half we definitely frustrated the Germans, who are a really good side - they have a lot of very talented young girls playing. Our girls did a fantastic job defensively and they put a lot of work into that. We knew we had to defend deep and we'd set ourselves up for that.

"Everybody knew what they had to do and we looked well organised. But we also know that we have players that are capable of really hurting opponents and we had really attacking moments and created two 100 per cent goal-scoring chances," said Bell.

Thoughts have now very much moved on to the tie against Scotland and working to get a win in what Bell expects to have "the character of a local derby".

He said: "I'm looking forward to the game, of course. It's been a tough tournament for us, but there have been a lot of positives we can take out of it. The German team are just a cut above everybody, so that means that Norway, Scotland and ourselves are quite on an even level and I think in these kind of games, it really is the form of the day that will be decisive.

"The concentration levels have to be high. We found that out in the games so far - when they weren't that high, we were punished. As the host nation, Scotland don't want to finish bottom without any points, so they're going to be aggressive in the game. And they were much improved in the game against Norway, that was a really tight tie. It was a very even match.

"I think it will be a very physical game, it's going to be more of a battle. But we still want to be creative, we created enough chances in both games, but we will to have to finish them," continued Bell.

The coach's belief that Ireland can get a strong result from the game is also evident in the squad, with the only goal-scorer of the tournament so far, Rebecca Cooke, echoing his sentiments.

"We have definitely surprised people so far. We came into a tough group with the Germans and the Norwegians, and then Scotland being the host country. We went out in the first game and got the draw and I think that set our standards for the rest of the tournament. And then to go out and play Germany, a really tough side who are training a lot more than we are, and do so well was good for us.

"We really want to end the camp on a high against Scotland tomorrow and not let our standards drop at all. Our aim now is to come second in the group," said Cooke.

The goal against Norway was Cooke's first for her country, as she is relatively new to international football.

Cooke said: "It was my first goal for Ireland, so it was a proud moment. I was just brought into the squad in August and my first camp was in September, as I didn't play Under-15s or Under-16s. I felt I had progressed a good bit last year and then after seeing me playing a number of times, Colin invited me to the home-based session and that led me to here."

And Cooke impressed how eager she and her team-mates are to get a win from what they expect to be a hard-fought game.

She said: "It's going to be a tough game for us, obviously Scotland are the home team, they have the support. But we need to just keep our heads, and go into the game the same as we did against Norway and Germany, knowing we can get something out of the game, and knowing that's it's important that we do. We want to end the camp on a high. We want to make a markand show that Ireland has potential."

Republic of Ireland WU17 Squad
Goalkeepers: Courtney Maguire (Shelbourne), Maeve Williams (Wexford Youths)
Defenders: Therese Kinnevey (Galway Women's), Eabha O'Mahony (Cork City), Ellie Ferguson (Shelbourne), Shauna Brennan (Galway Women's), Mia Dodd (Shelbourne), Zara Foley (Cork City)
Midfielders: Rebecca Cooke (Shelbourne), Aoibheann Clancy (Limerick), Orla Prendergast (Peamount United), Della Doherty (Peamount United), Erin McLaughlin (Sea Rovers FC), Taylor White (Shelbourne)
Forwards: Lauren Egbuloniu (Cork City), Sophie Liston (Limerick), Emily Whelan (Shelbourne), Jessica Ziu (Shelbourne), Blessing Kingsley (Wexford Youths)

UEFA Women's European Under-17 Championship Elite Round - Group Four
March 20: Republic of Ireland 1-1 Norway
March 23: Germany 2-0 Republic of Ireland
March 26: Scotland v Republic of Ireland, 14:30, Ainslie Park, Edinburgh

Tickets
FAI Ticket Collections will be open from 14:00 until kick-off at Lansdowne Rugby Club.

Ticketmaster will have two vans outside Aviva Stadium from 16:00 to purchase tickets.

Tickets can be purchased online - Click here to purchase tickets

General
All food and beverage outlets will be open throughout the stadium from 18:15 for General Admission tickets and from 17:45 for Premium Level ticket holders. Supporters are encouraged to be in the stadium at least one hour early to soak up the pre-match atmosphere. 

Safety & Security
Supporters travelling to Aviva Stadium are advised to arrive at least one hour ahead of kick-off to get through security and they are reminded of new security measures:

- Aviva Stadium Management are introducing a “No Bag Policy” to all events in the stadium

- It is important that supporters do not bring any bags or rucksacks to the game

Match Programme
Don’t forget to pick up the official match programme, which is the ultimate souvenir item from today’s game. This collector’s edition includes exclusive artwork, insightful features, a four-page Kids Zone, profile of today’s opponents and much more. There are two alternative covers to collect.

Social Media 
For all breaking news including the exclusive announcement of the Republic of Ireland starting XI and behind-the-scenes content, follow our official Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube accounts.

The official hashtags for the game are #IRLGEO and #EURO2020

TV
The game will be broadcast live on both RTÉ2 and Sky Sports Main Event - both programmes start at 19:00.

Goals from Aaron Dobbs, Cillian Duffy, Kieran McDaid (pictured above) and second-half substitutes Simon Falvey and Alan Murphy repeated the 5-0 defeat inflicted upon the Forces last year in Cork.

Both sides named experimental line-ups ahead of world championships later in the year with Conor Keeley, Conor Kane and Pierce Phillips the only starters for Greg Yelverton’s Student side from their last international game against France last June. Similarly, Defence Forces Head Coach Richie Barber selected a side without twenty-two of his players who played in the qualifiers for the World Military Games.

Aaron Dobbs opened the scoring after fifteen minutes for the Third Level team. The TU Dublin student directed Kieran McDaid’s low cross across the six-yard box into the net.

Cillian Duffy was a constant thorn in the sides of the Army and was rewarded when he outjumped the surrounding defenders to head home Jack Tuite’s cross from the right. McDaid would also get in on the act during the opening half when Forces keeper Ken Deegan could only divert Conor Kane’s cross into the IT Carlow student’s path.

With both sides making a number of changes in the opening minutes of the second half, the game was at risk of losing its tempo. However, the Colleges & Universities ensured there would be no fight back from the Defence Forces when Simon Falvey struck a free kick from right on the edge of the box underneath the wall and past Deegan.

UL student Alan Murphy would complete the goalscoring for the day with twenty minutes remaining when he swept home Ronan Young’s cross.

The next tests for both sides will come in May when the Defence Forces welcome the United Kingdom to Richmond Park whilst the Colleges & Universities will travel to Bordeaux to once again face France.

CU: McCabe, Tuite, Slevin, Keeley, Kane, Phillips, McDaid, Kelly, Scott, Dobbs, Duffy

Subs All Used: Young, Nugent, Quinn, Murphy, Coffey, McNally, Falvey

DF: Deegan, Friel, Doran, S Delaney, L Delaney, Dempsey, Smith, Fullum, Dillon, Rafferty, Long

Subs All Used: O’Riordan, Fisher, McCann, Sheehan, Mulreaney, O’Doherty, Scanlon, McCarthy

Referee: Ray Conlon (Midlands)