The Republic of Ireland makes its historic first appearance at the finals of a Women’s World Cup on Thursday morning (11 am Irish time) when they kick off their campaign against tournament co-hosts Australia (The Matildas). If you want to be boring and watch it at home or on your phone while at work, that’s fine, but for the true fans – here are some of the best public screening options for the first game.
Fixtures:
Republic of Ireland v Australia (Thursday, July 20)
Republic of Ireland v Canada (Wednesday, July 26)
Republic of Ireland v Nigeria (Monday, July 31)
Sport Ireland Indoor Arena, Blanchardstown
This one is being billed as the largest live public screening event for the opening match, with the biggest fan zone area. Admission is free, but tickets must be obtained through the Eventbrite website. A full programme of pre and post-match entertainment is also promised. Prizes are also on offer for the best dressed super fan.
Irishtown Stadium, Ringsend/Irishtown
This one promises to be one of the most atmospheric screening events, as the organisers have skin in the game. The youngest member of the Irish squad is Abbie Larkin, who hails from Irishtown and this event – which will be screened live on a 22-metre LED screen; and also promises kids and full family entertainment before and after the match – was organised by Abbie’s uncle.
Liberty Hall Theatre, Eden Quay, Dublin 1
The comfortable surroundings of the Liberty Hall Theatre are also on offer. Hopefully Thursday morning won’t turn into a summer panto, but a worthy venue nonetheless. Doors open at 10am ahead of the 11am kick-off.
Sky shops, Dundrum Town Centre, Dundrum, Co Dublin; Blancharstown Centre; Mahon Point Shopping Centre, Cork
Sky (which sponsors the Irish team) will screen the game(s) at its stores around the country, including Dundrum Town Centre and Blanchardstown Centre. The stores will host three free watch parties for local football fans to come and show their support for the team. In-store festivities will begin ahead of match kick-off in each store on match day and include former Women’s National Team players, face painters, cupcakes and much more.
All three fixtures will be shown live on Sky Glass TV screens around the stores and there will also be a chance to win an exclusive Sky WNT Watch Party Kit for your own home. Kevin Halpin, Head of Retail at Sky Ireland, said: “This is a momentous occasion for women’s football in Ireland and we are thrilled to be able to bring Irish football fans together to cheer on this amazing squad.”
