The Republic of Ireland face a critical test in their bid to qualify for World Cup 2014 as they line up against Sweden, currently a place and point above them in second place. With Germany set to storm away with the group, the onus is on Giovanni Trapattoni’s men to avoid defeat in the first competitive match to be played in the national stadium in Stockholm if they are to retain serious hopes of qualification. The veteran Italian ...More

Mick McCarthy has praised Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni for getting results since taking over with the national team. The current Ipswich Town boss told that while Ireland had a disappointing Euro 2012, just getting there was an achievement in itself. McCarthy managed Ireland for six years between 1996 and 2002, taking the national team to the 2002 World Cup in Japan and South Korea and reaching the second round, lo...More

Mick McCarthy has admitted he would one day like to manage at international level again. Having led the Republic of Ireland between 1996 and 2002, McCarthy’s passion for world football has not diminished. “I love the club management, the day-to-day involvement with players and everything that goes with it but yes I do see myself going back if I get the opportunity. That is not necessarily to the Republic of Ireland - other internatio...More

Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni believes he will remain in charge for the remainder of his side’s 2014 World Cup qualification campaign. The veteran Italian had been under huge pressure from supporters after Ireland’s disappointing Euro 2012 campaign has been followed by a shaky start to qualification for Brazil 2014, culminating in a 6-1 home destruction at the hands of Germany on Friday. However, after Ireland ease...More

Italy play Ireland tonight in their final group game, with Italy fighting for their place in the tournament whilst Ireland are playing for pride after two losses in two games. Although the Italian’s qualification does rely on the result in the other final fixture, Spain vs Croatia. The Azzurri need a win to qualify but also need Croatia to lose in order to progress, with the Croats currently on four points and the Italians on two. I...More

After the Republic of Ireland saw their Euro 2012 journey come to an end with a comprehensive 4-0 defeat to Spain, thoughts turn to the decisions that manager Giovanni Trapattoni must make for the final Group C game against Italy. Ireland were unable to upset the reigning champions to keep their hopes of qualification for the quarter finals alive, and had little in response to the Spanish inquisition enforced by the metronomic domina...More