The much-anticipated UEFA Champions League first qualifying round match between Shelbourne and Linfield is set for Wednesday, 9 July 2025, with kick-off at 19:45 UK time at Tolka Park in Dublin. British viewers can catch this exciting North-South Irish derby live on RTÉ 2 Ireland in HD, with comprehensive coverage also available on RTÉ Player for geo-restricted audiences. RTÉ News will provide additional reporting, with Tony O'Donoghue delivering updates throughout the broadcast. RTÉ's broadcast team for the match is led by presenter Peter Collins, a veteran of Irish sports broadcasting known for his engaging and insightful coverage. The main commentary will be provided by Des Curran, whose expertise and clear narration have made him a respected voice in Irish football commentary. He will be joined by co-commentator Kenny Cunningham, a former Republic of Ireland international defender who brings tactical knowledge and player insights to the commentary box. Analysts Alan Cawley and Stuart Byrne, both former professional footballers with extensive playing experience in Irish leagues, will provide expert punditry to break down key moments and strategies. Reporter Tony O'Donoghue, renowned for his in-depth football journalism, will offer pitch-side insights and interviews throughout the game. For UK viewers eager to follow the clash, BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app are also providing live streaming coverage, reflecting the match's significance across these islands. This high-profile fixture has generated significant excitement, with Tolka Park sold out as Shelbourne look to capitalise on their status as SSE Airtricity League of Ireland Premier League champions. Linfield, crowned 2025 NIFL Premiership champions, arrive in Dublin under the management of David Healy, aiming to bring a positive result back to Windsor Park for the second leg scheduled for 16 July. Tickets for the return leg are in high demand, underscoring the intense rivalry and passion surrounding this tie. This encounter revives a historic rivalry, last notably contested in the 2005 Setanta Sports Cup Final, a memorable match where Linfield triumphed 2-0 thanks to goals from club legends Glenn Ferguson and Peter Thompson. Both teams have enjoyed recent successes domestically, with Shelbourne securing the Premier Division title last season with 63 points, while Linfield topped the Northern Irish Championship round with 85 points. The match promises a closely fought battle between two evenly matched sides, with pride and progression in Europe at stake. Fans can expect a vibrant atmosphere and keen tactical battles, amplified by the expert analysis of the RTÉ team and the quality of football on display. As part of their rich broadcasting tradition, RTÉ continues to bring top-tier football to viewers with a line-up of presenters and commentators who combine professionalism with deep local knowledge. For more detailed match previews and live updates, fans may visit the official websites of [Shelbourne FC](https:\/\/shelbournefc.ie\/how-to-watch-shelbourne-v-linfield-uefa-champions-league\/), [Linfield FC](https:\/\/linfieldfc.com\/shelbourne-v-linfield-match-preview), and the [UEFA Champions League official site](https:\/\/www.uefa.com\/uefachampionsleague\/match\/2045297--linfield-vs-shelbourne\/). This match is not only pivotal in the European campaign of both clubs but also a thrilling showcase of Irish football talent on the continental stage. p