The 2025 British and Irish Lions Tour is shaping up to be a showcase of Irish rugby talent. With Andy Farrell at the helm as head coach, several key Irish players are expected to don the famous red jersey.

Caelan Doris stands out as a strong candidate for Lions captaincy. The dynamic back-row forward has been a consistent performer for Ireland and is widely regarded as one of the best in his position globally. Andrew Porter and Tadhg Furlong are near-certainties in the front row, with their scrummaging prowess and work rate in the loose making them invaluable assets.

Dan Sheehan, if recovered from his long-term injury, is likely to be the first-choice hooker. His lineout throwing accuracy and mobility around the park set him apart from other contenders. Jamison Gibson-Park’s quick service and decision-making ability make him a favorite for the scrum-half position.

Betting odds and gambling insights

As the Lions Tour approaches, gambling enthusiasts are keeping a close eye on player selection odds. Betting platforms, such as those found on comparison websites like casinos.com, are offering various markets related to the tour, including top try scorer, test match results, and player of the series.

Irish players feature prominently in these markets, reflecting their expected strong representation in the squad. Bookmakers are particularly bullish on Caelan Doris and James Lowe, with both players receiving favorable odds across multiple categories.

It’s worth noting that gambling on rugby, while exciting, should be approached responsibly. Always set limits and be aware of the risks involved.

Key Irish backs in contention

The Irish backline boasts a wealth of talent vying for Lions selection. James Lowe has emerged as a leading contender for the left wing position. His powerful left boot and defensive skills make him a valuable asset in the back three.

In the centers, Bundee Aki and Garry Ringrose form a formidable partnership. Aki’s direct running and physical presence complement Ringrose’s elusive footwork and defensive organization. Hugo Keenan has made the fullback position his own for Ireland and is expected to challenge for the Lions 15 jersey.

Mack Hansen’s versatility and aerial ability put him in contention for a spot on the right wing. His performances in the green of Ireland have caught the eye of selectors and fans alike.

Emerging Irish talents

The Lions Tour isn’t just about established stars. Several emerging Irish talents are pushing for inclusion. Jack Crowley has been making waves at fly-half, showcasing a mature game management style beyond his years.

Joe McCarthy, the young lock, has been impressive in his outings for Ireland. His physicality and work rate have drawn comparisons to Irish rugby legend Paul O’Connell. Sam Prendergast, another fly-half option, has caught Andy Farrell’s eye and could be a surprise inclusion.

Jack Boyle and James McNabney represent the next generation of Irish forwards. Both have been named in Ireland’s Six Nations squad as development players, indicating their potential for future international honors.

Irish players’ recent form and statistics

Recent performances in the Six Nations and autumn internationals have bolstered the case for Irish players’ inclusion in the Lions squad. Caelan Doris has been a standout, leading the Irish forwards in carries and tackles.

James Lowe’s attacking statistics are particularly impressive. His ability to break the line and create opportunities for teammates has been a key factor in Ireland’s recent successes. Josh van der Flier, the 2022 World Player of the Year, continues to set high standards in the back row.

Tadhg Beirne’s versatility makes him a valuable squad member. Capable of playing in the second row or back row, he offers coaches flexibility in selection. Bundee Aki’s powerful performances in the center have cemented his status as one of the northern hemisphere’s premier midfielders.

Impact of Andy Farrell’s Lions appointment

Andy Farrell’s appointment as Lions head coach has significant implications for Irish rugby. Temporarily stepping away from his role with Ireland, Farrell’s intimate knowledge of the Irish players could influence selection decisions.

Simon Easterby has been named interim Ireland head coach for the 2025 Six Nations. This change in leadership provides Irish players with an opportunity to impress a different coach and potentially enhance their Lions prospects.

The possibility of up to 8-9 Irish players featuring in the Lions starting XV is a testament to the strength of Irish rugby. With eight test matches before the Lions squad announcement, players have ample opportunity to stake their claim for selection. A new profit-share agreement means Lions players could earn up to €120,000 for the tour, adding financial incentive to the honor of representing the famous touring side.

The post Irish rugby players set to go on Lions Tour 2025 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.

Click Me – GAA League Tables 2025

Galway 2-19 Kilkenny 1-19

After a humbling first-round defeat to Tipperary, Galway arrived at UPMC Nowlan Park under pressure. Kilkenny, fresh off a rare win in Ennis—their first in 16 years—had momentum on their side, and with manager Micheál Donoghue making nine changes to the starting lineup, it looked like a tall order for the Tribesmen to bridge the gap in just a week.

WATCH: FULL-TIME HIGHLIGHTS

A brilliant contest ends with Galway edging out Kilkenny in the Allianz Hurling League @KilkennyCLG 1-19@Galway_GAA 2-19#GAANOW pic.twitter.com/4kyGHlggHW

— The GAA (@officialgaa) February 2, 2025

But Galway ripped up that script with a defiant and impressive display, effectively winning the game twice—once through their early dominance, which saw them build an eight-point lead, and again at the death when they withstood Kilkenny’s late surge to land the final four points in succession.

For much of the game, Galway controlled the midfield and dictated the tempo. Declan McLoughlin, one of Donoghue’s new selections, was central to their success. Fresh from scoring a late goal off the bench against Tipp, he opened his account early here, slipping the ball past Adrian Tallis at the near post in the third minute. By the time McLoughlin struck his second goal midway through the second half, Galway looked home and dry. But this is Kilkenny, and nothing is ever that straightforward.

Derek Lyng’s men mounted a characteristic fightback. Martin Keoghan carried over his stellar form from Cusack Park, firing over seven points from play, five of them in the first half. But Kilkenny’s attack was often one-dimensional, with Keoghan carrying the burden as Eoin Cody struggled to find his usual rhythm, and Paddy Deegan’s deployment in midfield failed to pay off as Cianán Fahy and Tom Monaghan dominated that sector.

Still, Kilkenny’s bench made an impact. Billy Ryan and Shane Walsh injected energy, and suddenly Galway, who had led 2-16 to 0-13 at one stage, were being reeled in. Darach Fahy pulled off a superb save to deny Cody once, but the Ballyhale attacker wasn’t to be denied a second time, blasting a goal into the corner to spark the loudest roar of the day from the 5,460-strong crowd.

It looked as if Kilkenny might complete a trademark smash-and-grab, but Galway showed their mettle. Two surging runs from Darren Morrissey earned crucial frees, both converted by Jason Flynn, before Conor Whelan stepped up with a booming point to seal the win.

Galway’s standout performers were evident across the field. Padraic Mannion and Gavin Lee were towers of strength in defence, contributing five points between them, while Monaghan’s three points from midfield ensured Galway had the platform to deliver quality ball forward. At the other end, Kilkenny’s defensive core—led by Huw Lawlor and David Blanchfield—worked tirelessly, but their attacking options lacked depth beyond Keoghan.

Had Kilkenny stolen it at the death, Lyng would have been satisfied with their position after two games. But for Donoghue and Galway, this was a statement win. They dug deep when it mattered and rebounded from last week’s setback in a manner that leaves this division finely balanced.

With lessons learned and momentum regained, Galway’s season is far from over—and with Kilkenny never far from a comeback, their paths may cross again when silverware is on the line.

The post Video Highlights – Galway bounce back to stun Kilkenny with 3pt victory appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Here is the schedule for Galway’s Gaelic football and hurling fixtures in 2025:

Allianz Football League Division 1:

•January 25: Galway vs. Armagh at Pearse Stadium, 5:15 PM

•February 2: Mayo vs. Galway at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park, 3:45 PM

•February 15: Derry vs. Galway at Celtic Park, 5:00 PM

•February 23: Galway vs. Donegal at Pearse Stadium, 3:45 PM

•March 1: Galway vs. Tyrone at Tuam Stadium, 1:45 PM

•March 15: Dublin vs. Galway at Croke Park, 7:30 PM

•March 23: Galway vs. Kerry at Pearse Stadium, 3:45 PM

Allianz Hurling League Division 1A:

•January 26: Galway vs. Tipperary at Pearse Stadium, 3:45 PM

•February 8: Galway vs. Clare at Pearse Stadium, 7:30 PM

•February 23: Kilkenny vs. Galway at UPMC Nowlan Park, 1:45 PM

•March 1: Wexford vs. Galway at Chadwicks Wexford Park, 5:00 PM

•March 8: Limerick vs. Galway at TUS Gaelic Grounds, 7:30 PM

•March 22: Cork vs. Galway at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, 7:30 PM

Please note that fixtures are subject to change. For the most current information, refer to official GAA sources.

Latest Galway GAA Club news

Tweets by Galway_GAA

Galway Gigs is the home of live music listings

Absolutely, here are the fixtures for the Galway team with the team names in English:

– **Saturday 27 January 2024**
– Allianz Football League Division 1
– Round 1
– Pearse Stadium 19:00 Galway vs Monaghan

– **Saturday 3 February 2024**
– Allianz Football League Division 1
– Round 2
– MacHale Park 19:00 Mayo vs Galway

– **Saturday 10 February 2024**
– Allianz Hurling League Division 1 Group A
– Round 2
– Pearse Stadium 19:00 Galway vs Kilkenny

– **Saturday 17 February 2024**
– Allianz Football League Division 1
– Round 3
– Pearse Stadium 19:00 Galway vs Kerry

– **Saturday 24 February 2024**
– Allianz Football League Division 1
– Round 4
– Cusack Park 19:00 Clare vs Galway

– **Saturday 25 February 2024**
– Allianz Hurling League Division 1 Group A
– Round 3
– Nowlan Park 19:00 Kilkenny vs Galway

– **Saturday 3 March 2024**
– Allianz Football League Division 1
– Round 5
– Pearse Stadium 19:00 Galway vs Tyrone

– **Saturday 10 March 2024**
– Allianz Hurling League Division 1 Group A
– Round 4
– Semple Stadium 19:00 Tipperary vs Galway

– **Saturday 17 March 2024**
– Allianz Football League Division 1
– Round 6
– Healy Park 19:00 Tyrone vs Galway

– **Saturday 24 March 2024**
– Allianz Football League Division 1
– Round 7
– Austin Stack Park 19:00 Kerry vs Galway

Remember, match schedules can be subject to change, so it’s a good idea to verify closer to the dates of the matches.

Latest Galway GAA Club fixtures

The post GAA Fixtures for Galway Hurling and Gaelic Football 2025 appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

List of players in each Sigerson Cup team
Tuesday 7 January

Sigerson Cup round 1
TUS Midlands v Maynooth, TUS Midlands, 7pm
ATU Sligo v Ulster University, ATU Sligo, 7pm
TUD v University Galway, Grangegorman, 7pm – HEC Youtube
UCC v UCD, The Mardyke, 5.30pm

Wednesday 8 January

Sigerson Cup round 1
ATU Donegal v MTU Cork, Abbotstown, 7pm
ATU Galway v UL, Liam Mellowes, 7pm
DCU v MTU Kerry, DCU, 5pm
St Mary’s v Queens, Davitts, 2pm

The post 2025 GAA Sigerson Cup: Draw with fixtures and start times appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

challenges of the sport, there is also the mental aspect of competing. From top athletes to just beginning ones, the pressure to always be at the top can be immense. The most critical of all these issues is how sports people cope with performance pressure while seeking success. This article examines how athletes remain focused and able to perform under pressure, even in high-stakes situations. From psychological preparation and training to help, we will explore how being in such a tough competitive environment is possible.

7 Ways Sports People Keep Up With The Performance Pressure

Setting clear goals and benchmarks

As we know, athletic performance is achieved when winning competitions, and sports people undergo a lot of pressure to succeed. To stay focused and driven, professional athletes set goals and benchmarks. This helps them enormously in the long run as they can utilize this vast picture to concentrate on smaller milestones and look forward to accomplishing them.

It also encourages them to keep up with the training schedule and take responsibility for their actions. Similarly, the regular measurement of such benchmarks enables the sportsperson to refine their plays and techniques to stay focused on the end goal.

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Maintaining a structured training regimen

To face the pressure of competitive sports, sportspeople design their training in a structured manner. This technique helps them improve their performance and physical form and instills discipline and constancy in their training.

Achieving well-defined objectives and game plans encompassing resistance, endurance, and various skills enables the athletes to measure their advancement and adjust accordingly toward achieving their objectives. In addition, a structured training program allows the athlete to schedule his recovery time to be at peak performance during the competitions.

Seeking professional coaching and mentorship

A great deal of pressure is expected of sportspeople, which can be quite intimidating. Many athletes approach their performance with professional coaching and mentorship to cope with these challenges effectively.

Coaches do not just offer individualized training programs to improve an athlete’s physical skills but also help athletes train mentally. With individual attention provided through mentorship, the athlete’s mind has a clearer picture of the sport, which builds the courage to perfect the desired skills and tactics.

Practicing mindfulness

Negative performance pressure is common among sportspeople and relates to their focus on the competition or success. Because of the challenges many athletes face today, mindfulness practices are being adopted. Meditation, focus on breathing, and visual imagery during training increase es awareness of being in a particular moment.

In most cases, this attitude allows stress management, enhances concentration, and stays calm. It follows that, with the right mindset, athletes can properly respond to the challenges of their sport and be at their peak performance when needed.

Utilizing performance analytics and technology

With competition comes pressure, and in such scenarios, many sports people have turned to performance analytics and technology to help them cope with competition stress and compete better. Analyzing athletes’ training, progress, and achievements and applying for further development in their progress becomes easier.

There are also heart rate monitors and GPS trackers that tell us about certain movements or how powerful the exertion is. Therefore, they are very helpful in tuning training strategies. Also, numerous applications further allow reviewing video footage of practice sessions and competitions to analyze the technique and performance.

Having a balanced and healthy diet

Perhaps athletes can be termed ‘Superhumans’ as they stand out in the crowd due to their incredible achievements in sports. However, let’s not forget the pressure that comes with success, and they require effective strategies to manage such situations. Intense competition causes performance anxiety among athletes, and most seek to relieve it through proper nutrition.

This allows professional sports people to withstand even greater loads and remain in top shape during training and contests. Many athletes benefit from a nutritious diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, healthy lean meat, and whole grains. Some may also seek alternative aids, such as THC oil, for relaxation and energy-boost.

Prioritizing recovery and self-care practices

Every athlete is used to performance pressure and strives to improve their level of performance in a given competition. They adopt recovery and self care practices as fundamental aspects of the training to stay at the top of their game and preserve touch.

Such devotion to self-care can include, but is not limited to, rest, diet, meditation, and therapeutic sessions, augmenting their general health. Such emphasized recovery allows athletes to perform better, be more resilient, and return even better after tough times or adversities.

Why Is It Crucial For Sportspeople To Keep Up With The Performance Pressure?

While they can perform at high levels, most sportsmen and sportswomen find it very challenging to deal with the pressures of daily performance expectations.

Considering the competitive nature of sports, regardless of establishing it as a profession, competing in tournaments, or even going against oneself, competitiveness implies that there is pressure to perform at the top level all the time.

Such pressure could be regarded as a good thing as it pushes athletes to better their skills, stretch their boundaries consistently, or keep themselves and their minds in perfect shape.

Moreover, remaining aware of a certain level of expectation from their performance also makes an athlete develop a certain sense of confidence and versatility, enabling them to withstand disorder, pressure, and, most importantly, failure.

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Closing Lines

For every athlete, dealing with performance pressure in sports is a work in progress, and the stress management strategies wielded are distinct despite the discipline. Sportsmen and women are relatively focused and composed because they use various methods – from mental conditioning to establishing a strong support network. The biggest hurdle is learning to deal with pressure by recognizing the necessity for preparation in both physical and psychological aspects. Achievement of goals, development of positive habits, and even meditation, which athletes talk about so often, aren’t just goals but activities of importance that will help them excel when necessary.

The post Here’s How Sports People Keep Up With The Performance Pressure appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

From hard-hitting safeties to iconic quarterbacks, Irish NFL stars have become legends on and off the field. Here’s a look at some of the most celebrated Irish NFL players in history, whose legacies continue to influence the game today.

Tom Brady – The G.O.A.T. with Irish Roots

Tom Brady’s illustrious career is legendary, and his Irish heritage (born to an Irish father) adds an extra layer of pride for his fans. Beginning his NFL journey with the New England Patriots in 2000, Brady won six Super Bowls with the team and one more with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his clutch performances, especially in Super Bowls, Brady holds records for the most touchdown passes, career completions, and Super Bowl MVP titles.

As sports betting grew, platforms like FanDuel began offering player-specific odds, letting fans engage with Brady’s career in an entirely new way. For fans, betting on Brady’s passing yard totals or touchdowns in high-stakes games became a unique way to experience his journey.  Frequently featured in player odds by FanDuel, Brady drew immense attention as his performances often determined outcomes on both the field and betting lines.

Mark Bavaro – A Symbol of Toughness and Precision

Mark Bavaro, a tight end who spent most of his career with the New York Giants, is remembered as one of the NFL’s toughest players. Drafted in 1985, he quickly became a cornerstone of the Giants’ offense, helping them secure two Super Bowl victories. Bavaro’s ability to power through defenses made him a favorite among fans, earning him two Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections.

His performance was not just about stats; it was his physical style and relentless work ethic that left a lasting impact on the game. Bavaro was eventually honored in the Giants’ Ring of Honor, a testament to his pivotal role in the team’s history.

Conor Odd – A Dominant Force in the Trenches

Known for his skill as an interior pass-rusher, Conor Odd played with an aggressive edge that set him apart. Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 1999, Odd excelled in disrupting offensive lines and applying pressure on quarterbacks, contributing to the Ravens’ defensive dominance.

Odd earned an All-Pro selection during his time in Baltimore, solidifying his reputation as one of the era’s premier defensive tackles. Though he later played for the Kansas City Chiefs and Cleveland Browns, Odd’s legacy is most closely tied to his success with the Ravens.

John Lynch – A Hall of Fame Safety with Grit

John Lynch’s reputation as a hard-hitting safety was forged during his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and later the Denver Broncos. Drafted out of Stanford in 1993, Lynch became a linchpin of the Buccaneers’ defense, playing a vital role in their Super Bowl win in 2002. His nine Pro Bowl selections and three All-Pro nods reflect a career defined by excellence and consistency.

Lynch’s dedication extended beyond the field, making him a role model through his charitable work. In 2020, Lynch’s achievements earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy among the NFL’s best.

John Carney – The Reliable Kicker

John Carney’s career as a placekicker spanned over two decades, showcasing his remarkable accuracy and dependability. Known for his time with the San Diego Chargers and the New Orleans Saints, Carney became one of the league’s most consistent scorers. His two Pro Bowl appearances and All-Pro selection highlight his contributions to the NFL, where his skill with long-distance field goals set him apart.

Carney holds the record for the most career field goals, reflecting his ability to deliver under pressure. His resilience and consistency make him one of the most celebrated kickers with Irish roots in NFL history.

Jim Kelly – The Quarterback Who Changed the Game

As the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills from 1986 to 1996, Jim Kelly led the team to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances, a feat unmatched in NFL history. Drafted in 1983, Kelly introduced the “K-Gun” offense, a hurry-up approach that forced the NFL to adapt defensive rules. His achievements with the Bills include multiple franchise records, such as most completions, passing yards, and touchdowns. Kelly’s leadership, combined with his strategic brilliance made him a pioneer who redefined quarterbacking in the NFL.

Conclusion

These Irish players have become legends, showcasing skill, resilience, and a drive to achieve greatness. From powerful pass-rushers like Conor Odd to record-breaking quarterbacks like Tom Brady, these athletes have contributed significantly to the league and brought pride to their Irish heritage. Their legacies inspire both current and future players, proving that the fighting Irish spirit is alive and well in the NFL.

The post Top Irish NFL Players in History appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The Sporting Lisbon boss will take charge at Old Trafford after the November international break as he looks to improve spirits at the Red Devils following their poor start under Erik ten Hag. While a push for fourth place might appear ambitious when making a bet on football, Amorim’s tactical approach and ability to build winning teams in Portugal have earned him the opportunity to take on one of the biggest jobs in football.

The 39-year-old has a massive task ahead of him. United have endured their worst start to a Premier League season in recent memory, sitting 14th at the time of Ten Hag’s sacking. Although the current squad has potential, their performances have lacked cohesion and identity, even after spending so much money in the transfer window.

Ten Hag was given time after winning the FA Cup against the odds over Manchester City, but after spending big for little reward, the time had come for INEOS to pull the trigger. While silverware is often the currency of success in football, the Dutchman was in serious debt due to inconsistent league performances, culminating in his sacking.

Amorim, known for implementing a clear and consistent playing style, faces the immediate challenge of restoring belief and structure within the team, assisted by popular interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, who steadied the ship in home games against Leicester City and Chelsea.

With Champions League qualification still a slight, though an ambitious possibility, Amorim’s ability to turn around Sporting offers hope to United fans.

After rising through the ranks as Braga manager, Amorim’s track record shows he has a remarkable capacity to transform teams. At Sporting Lisbon, he led the club to two PrimeiraLiga titles, including last season’s triumph, and they remain unbeaten in Portugal this term. His side’s success has extended to Europe, where Sporting are flying high in the Champions League, with two wins from their first three games.

Central to this success has been Amorim’s tactical innovation, particularly his implementation of a 3-4-2-1 formation and emphasis on aggressive pressing and a high defensive line. His short-passing, possession-based style has made Sporting a force in both domestic and European competitions.

Even after his departure, the manager is adored at the José Alvalade Stadium for his ability to transform Sporting into a dominant force, breaking the club’s 19-year title drought and maintaining their competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions.

Amorim’s success at Sporting naturally caught the attention of the Premier League. Over the summer, he was heavily linked with Liverpool and West Ham United, both clubs eager to find a manager with a strong tactical vision and a proven track record of developing players. However, Amorim stayed loyal to Sporting, believing he had unfinished business.

It wasn’t until Manchester United came calling following TenHag’s departure that Amorim finally took the leap, joining a club with a strong Portuguese core, including Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, and former Sporting star Manuel Ugarte.

Tactically, Amorim is expected to stick to the blueprint that brought him success in Lisbon. He is renowned for his use of a 3-4-2-1 or 3-4-3 formation, with a high-pressing game and an emphasis on possession. His Sporting side was built around a solid defensive foundation, with centre-backs like Gonçalo Inacio playing a key role in building attacks from the back.

United’s defence, particularly Lisandro Martínez, could benefit from this approach. Amorim’s teams also rely on dynamic wing-backs to provide width in attack, a system that may take time for United’s current full-backs to adjust to. However, players like Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw, once fit, could thrive in these roles. There is also the option to play wingers like Alejandro Garnacho and Anthony in these areas, revitalising those who are struggling in front of goal.

There’s also a historic link between Sporting and Manchester United through Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest players in football history, who started his European journey in Lisbon before becoming a legend at Old Trafford. This connection adds a symbolic layer to Amorim’s appointment, as he follows in the footsteps of a club whose bond with Sporting runs deep.

As Amorim embarks on this new chapter in his career, he will need to replicate the success he achieved for the Sportinguistas. United are desperate for a manager who can impose a clear identity on the team and restore their competitive edge.

The post Rúben Amorim: How the new Manchester United manager took Lisbon by storm appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

He highlighted the intensity New Zealand brings, saying, “Playing against the All Blacks has always brought that edge for any type of game.” Farrell described the matchup as “a top, top level Test match that everyone wants to be involved in,” underscoring Ireland’s ambition to “be up there competing with the best.”

This game marks the teams’ first meeting since the All Blacks edged out Ireland 28-24 in the 2023 World Cup quarter-finals. When asked if revenge would be a motivating factor, Farrell firmly stated, “No, that’s the truth – do you need that when you’re playing one of the best sides in the world? Everyone knows that’s the truth.” He further elaborated, “There has been a lot of rugby played and a lot of water gone under the bridge [since that game], so it doesn’t even play a part in it.”

Ireland, currently the top-ranked team globally, is aiming for their 20th consecutive win at home in the Aviva Stadium. Farrell acknowledged both Ireland’s success and New Zealand’s persistent strength, saying, “Irish rugby is in a good place, and I think everyone knows New Zealand are always the team to beat.” He added, “I expect it to be as good as ever, if not better.”

The post Andy Farrell discusses approach to All Blacks game appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

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About 1xBet 

1xBet is a world-renowned company with 17 years of experience in the betting and gambling industry. What is the problem with 1xBet? There are no issues — in Ireland, the bookmaker is licensed and operates completely legally. The brand’s clients can bet on thousands of sports events or play popular games from top providers in the online casino, with the company’s website and app available in 70 languages. 1xBet is an official partner of FC Barcelona, Italy’s Serie A, and other globally recognized sports brands, as well as a media partner of Spain’s La Liga. The company has been nominated for and received prestigious professional awards multiple times, and its platform monthly attracts over 3 million players worldwide

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