FIFA U-17 World Cup 2025: Watch Switzerland U-17 v Ireland U-17 on RTÉ 2 with Expert Commentary

On Tuesday, 18 November 2025, football fans across the UK and Ireland can tune into the exciting FIFA U-17 World Cup Round of 16 clash between Switzerland U-17 and Republic of Ireland U-17 at 14:45 UK time. This eagerly anticipated match will be broadcast live on RTÉ 2 HD and accessible via the RTÉ Player (Ireland geo-restricted) for those wanting to stream online, ensuring that Irish viewers don’t miss a moment of the action from the Aspire Zone in Doha, Qatar.

RTÉ’s coverage will be anchored by the experienced presenter Joanne Cantwell, who is renowned for her compelling football presenting on Irish television. Cantwell’s authoritative presence has been a staple of RTÉ’s sports broadcasting, bringing clarity and insight to major football events, including the UEFA Champions League and international fixtures.

The commentary team consists of Cathal Mullaney as the main commentator and Graham Gartland as co-commentator. Mullaney is a skilled broadcaster with deep knowledge of youth football, known for his articulate play-by-play analysis. Gartland, a former professional footballer with a strong background defending at club level (notably with St Patrick’s Athletic), provides detailed tactical insights and expert understanding of the game’s nuances.

Supporting the live commentary are two pundits, Alan Cawley and Stephen Kelly. Alan Cawley, a former League of Ireland forward turned analyst, is respected for his sharp tactical viewpoints and ability to break down attacking play. Stephen Kelly, likewise a former Ireland international and Premier League defender, brings a wealth of experience and defensive expertise, offering balanced assessments of both teams' strategies and player performances.

This RTÉ team will guide viewers through the stakes of this knockout game, where the Republic of Ireland will be looking to replicate their strong campaign in the tournament so far. The Republic’s U-17 side has impressed in Qatar, highlighted by key performances from forwards like Mark Noonan and Josh Umeh, and sits at the heart of Ireland’s hopes for success in the U-17 World Cup that is being held annually starting in 2025 in Qatar.

Switzerland have also shown they are formidable opponents in this competition, featuring a disciplined squad eager to progress. The match is set to begin at 17:45 local Doha time, corresponding to 14:45 GMT, and will be played on Pitch 1 of the Aspire Zone at the Mohammed Ghanim Stadium.

For fans wanting to follow the game live, RTÉ 2 offers HD coverage in Ireland, with streaming available on the RTÉ Player for viewers within Ireland’s geographic limits. Across the UK, other platforms may provide coverage, but RTÉ’s broadcast remains the premium source for Irish viewers.

RTÉ’s broadcasting rights to FIFA tournaments ensure Ireland's audiences receive expert-led football presentations with comprehensive team previews, live commentary, and post-match analysis. Joanne Cantwell’s presenting pedigree, combined with the expert commentary and punditry from Cathal Mullaney, Graham Gartland, Alan Cawley, and Stephen Kelly, guarantees a rich viewing experience for supporters.

To keep updated on the Ireland U-17 team and their progress, as well as general information on the FIFA U-17 World Cup, viewers can visit FIFA’s official U-17 World Cup page. For detailed analysis of the competing squads and match stats, platforms like ESPN Soccer offer comprehensive coverage.

Further background on RTÉ’s sports programming and presentation style can be found on their official site RTÉ Sport, where fans can also access replays and highlights post-match.

This FIFA Under-17 World Cup marks a significant milestone as FIFA has committed to hosting this tournament annually in Qatar from now through a 5-year cycle starting 2025, underscoring the importance and growing prestige of youth international football.

Football lovers in the UK and Ireland should set their alarms for this early afternoon kick-off to catch all the drama, skill, and youthful exuberance of this high-stakes encounter between Switzerland and the Republic of Ireland on RTÉ 2 HD.