Shelbourne, Linfield Clash in Champions League Qualifiers

Shelbourne, after ending Shamrock Rovers' four-year dominance by clinching their 14th Irish Premier League title last season, are set to return to the Champions League qualifiers for the first time in 18 years. The team, recently stabilized by the appointment of Joey O'Brien as permanent head coach following Damien Duff's departure, faces Linfield, Northern Ireland's most decorated club, in the first qualifying round at a sold-out Tolka Park. The match, broadcast live on RTÉ2, carries significant financial stakes, with the potential to earn Shelbourne at least €1.71 million if they progress, while losers drop into the Conference League qualifiers. Analyst Richie Towell highlighted Shelbourne's advantage in match fitness over Linfield, who are currently in pre-season, suggesting Shelbourne's tempo could be decisive in the tie. The winner of this round will face Qarabağ FK from Azerbaijan, while the loser plays in the Conference League's second qualifying round. Shelbourne's recent form, including a 3-1 victory over Cork City under O'Brien, boosts their confidence ahead of this pivotal European contest.