Ireland U21 vs Slovakia U21 UEFA Euro Qualifiers: Watch Live on RTÉ2 with Joanne Cantwell and Alan Cawley

Match date: 10 October 2025

Ireland U21 vs Slovakia U21 UEFA U-21 European Championship Qualifiers Live on RTÉ2

On Friday, 10 October 2025, Ireland U21s take on Slovakia U21s in a crucial UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying fixture at Turner's Cross, Cork. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 UK time (7pm local time) with live television coverage on RTÉ2 Ireland HD and worldwide streaming available via the RTÉ Player (subject to geographic restrictions).

This match holds particular significance in Group 4, as Ireland currently sit second, trailing group leaders Slovakia by a narrow margin. Both sides remain unbeaten in the qualifiers, with Ireland having secured victories over Moldova and Andorra. The atmosphere at Turner's Cross promises to be electric as home fans back Jim Crawford's young squad hoping to close the gap on Slovakia.

RTÉ’s Expert Coverage Team: Presenter Joanne Cantwell, Pundit Alan Cawley, and Reporter Darren Frehill

RTÉ has assembled a polished and knowledgeable team for the broadcast. The programme will be presented by Joanne Cantwell, one of Ireland’s leading sports broadcasters, known for her extensive experience covering football at all levels including international fixtures and domestic leagues. Cantwell’s articulate presentation style and deep insight bring clarity and excitement to the broadcast.

Providing expert analysis is former professional footballer Alan Cawley. Cawley boasts a decorated career across Irish football with stints at clubs including Shamrock Rovers and St Patrick’s Athletic. His tactical acumen and understanding of developing young talent lend a valuable perspective to the match commentary, helping viewers appreciate player performances and strategic nuances.

On-site reporting from Cork is provided by Darren Frehill. Frehill contributes real-time updates and exclusive player and coach interviews, adding colour and immediacy to the broadcast.

Match Context and Player Insights

The Republic of Ireland U21 side, managed by Jim Crawford, enters this game following gritty performances. Although not always dominant, the team has exhibited strong character, notably coming from behind to beat Moldova away. Key players such as Mason Melia have shown promising talent, and hopes are high for further impact against Slovakia.

Slovakia currently top the group with a squad featuring players like winger Nino Marcelli, who has Champions League experience including scoring against AC Milan. Slovakia will miss their captain Mario Sauer, called up to the senior team, but return midfielder Tadeas Hajovsky bolsters their lineup. Ireland, meanwhile, awaits the potential debut of Manchester United prospect Jack Moorhouse, pending passport paperwork.

How to Watch and Follow Live

Irish football fans can watch the match live on RTÉ2 HD with coverage starting from 19:00. The RTÉ Player offers streaming for viewers in Ireland, providing a flexible viewing option. For those outside Ireland, various live score apps such as Sofascore and FotMob offer live updates, statistics, commentary, and detailed match tracking.

Additional written updates, post-match reports and analysis will be accessible on the RTÉ Sport website and through RTÉ’s social media channels.

About the UEFA U-21 European Championship Qualifiers

The UEFA Under-21 Championship serves as a key staging ground for Europe’s emerging football talent. Qualification contests like this one determine entrants for the 2027 tournament. Ireland’s under-21 squad often acts as a proving ground for players progressing to the senior national team, making these fixtures a prime opportunity to witness future stars.