Colin O’Brien Vows Support for Ireland’s U17 Players After World Cup Exit My Door Will Always Be Open
The Republic of Ireland’s U17 team experienced a disappointing end to their World Cup journey after a 3-1 defeat against Switzerland in Doha. This loss occurred in the Round of 16 of the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup, held at the Aspire Zone in Qatar. Despite a late goal from Vinnie Leonard, Ireland could not overcome Switzerland, who will advance to face Portugal in the quarter-finals.
Match Overview
From the start, the Boys in Green displayed determination. However, promising moments didn’t translate into goals. Jaden Umeh missed a critical opportunity when he lost his footing just inside the penalty box.
Post-Match Comments by Colin O’Brien
Manager Colin O’Brien expressed his disappointment after the match. “It’s been an incredible season,” he stated. He emphasized the belief in the team’s potential and acknowledged the disappointment of not progressing further. He noted the significant contribution of the players to their national representation.
- “They’ve inspired the nation, they’re role models now,” O’Brien added.
- He reassured players that “my door will always be open to them,” regardless of future changes.
Key Events in the Match
Switzerland’s Giacomo Koloto had a chance in the 16th minute, but his shot was saved by goalkeeper Alex Noonan. Nevio Scherrer missed a header from a corner, while Ireland’s offense generated some opportunities through distant efforts, including a shot by Ramon Martos just inches wide.
Goals Scored
Switzerland took the lead in the 57th minute when Adrien Llukes scored, with a shot that deflected in. The second goal followed in the 69th minute from Sandro Wyss, who scored with a stunning effort from 20 yards.
Leonard provided the Irish team some hope in the 82nd minute, finishing amidst a scramble to score, yet their efforts fell short as Mladen Mijajlovic sealed Switzerland’s victory with a late goal.
Team Lineups
Republic of Ireland:
- Alex Noonan
- Sherlock
- Leonard
- Butler
- Solanke (substituted for Ogbonna at 71 min)
- Finneran
- McDonnell (substituted for Lee at 80 min)
- Martos (substituted for McMahon-Brown at 60 min)
- Umeh
- Michael Noonan
- Ozhianvuna
Switzerland:
- Brogli
- Mambwa
- Zufferey
- Sadikaj
- Correia
- Mijajlovic (substituted for Barererwa at 89 min)
- Bruchez
- Llukes (substituted for Kaufmann at 89 min)
- Stiel (substituted for Sinani at 95 min)
- Koloto
- Scherrer (substituted for Wyss at half-time)
Final Thoughts
Despite the elimination, the Republic of Ireland U17 team showcased their potential and gained valuable experience on the world stage. Manager Colin O’Brien’s commitment to supporting his players reflects the optimism for future competitions.
