Republic’s World Cup Hopes Jeopardised After Armenia Loss

The Republic of Ireland’s World Cup qualifying hopes are in jeopardy after a 2-1 defeat in Armenia, with manager Heimir Hallgrímsson warning his side must take at least three points in Lisbon or the home rematch with Armenia to keep qualification alive. The squad’s club form is mixed: Caoimhín Kelleher has been ever-present for Brentford while Gavin Bazunu has lost his Southampton place and several other internationals are short of minutes. Northern Ireland have begun qualifying positively, beating Luxembourg 3-1 and losing 3-1 in Germany, and now face home fixtures against Slovakia and Germany with several players showing improved club form. In rugby, Ulster centre Stuart McCloskey says he wants to force his way back into Ireland selection, and Ulster head coach Richie Murphy says strong club performances and Ulster’s opening URC win over the Dragons are the route to international recognition. On the domestic club front, Irish teams had mixed European nights — Shelbourne drew with Häcken and Shamrock Rovers lost heavily to Sparta Prague — Cork City fans are preparing protests over ownership after a poor season, and Munster remain hampered by injuries. Outside football and rugby, world boxing champion Aoife O’Rourke is targeting Olympic qualification and the awarding of the 2026 Irish Open to Doonbeg has drawn criticism as degrading the tournament.