How to Watch Republic of Ireland v Poland: RTÉ 2, Radio Coverage and Expert Teams for Women's World Cup Qualifier

Match date: 18 April 2026

How to Watch Republic of Ireland v Poland: RTÉ 2, Radio Coverage and Expert Teams for Women's World Cup Qualifier

Football fans across the UK and Ireland are gearing up for an electrifying clash as the Republic of Ireland host Poland in the UEFA Women's World Cup 2027 Qualifiers at the iconic Aviva Stadium on Saturday, 18 April 2026, with kick-off at 3:00 PM Irish time (2:00 PM UK time).[3][1] While UK viewers might not have direct TV access on ITV, BBC, Sky or TNT, Irish broadcaster RTÉ 2 and RTÉ Player (geo-restricted) will beam live coverage, making it essential viewing for those with VPNs or dual interests in the British Isles' football scene.[3] This pivotal League Phase encounter sees Ireland, sitting on 3 points with a 1-0-2 record, aiming to build on their recent 3-2 thriller win over Poland in Gdańsk just days ago, where goals from Emily Murphy, Katie McCabe and Marissa Sheva secured a vital away victory.[3][4]

RTÉ's television flagship on RTÉ 2 and HD, plus streaming via RTÉ Player, promises top-tier analysis led by presenter Marie Crowe, a trailblazing Irish sports journalist whose career spans decades covering rugby, GAA and women's football, earning her accolades for championing female athletes. Main commentator Des Curran, a veteran RTÉ voice with over 20 years calling Gaelic games and soccer, will narrate the action alongside co-commentator Rianna Jarrett, the ex-Ireland striker who netted 42 goals in 107 caps and now imparts wisdom from her professional stints in the US and Iceland.[3] Pundits Karen Duggan, a former Ireland midfielder with 71 appearances renowned for her tenacity in midfield battles, and Stephanie Zambra, Ireland's record goalscorer with 51 strikes across 105 games and a globetrotting career from Shamrock Rovers to Liverpool Ladies, will dissect tactics. Reporter Tony O'Donoghue, RTÉ's seasoned pitbull known for his sharp sidelines work across Olympics and World Cups, adds live updates.[3]

For radio enthusiasts, Newstalk 106-108FM on Off the Ball features main commentator Stephen Doyle, a rising star in Irish football broadcasting with a knack for vivid match calls honed on club and international duties. He'll be joined by co-commentator Louise Quinn, the Ireland defender with 92 caps whose defensive prowess and leadership at Celtic make her insights invaluable. Meanwhile, RTÉ Radio 1 offers comprehensive coverage hosted by Shane DawsonAdrian Eames, whose eloquent style has graced rugby and football for years. Co-commentator Sue Ronan, Ireland's legendary forward with 1990s World Cup heroics and 36 goals in 72 caps, brings historical depth, alongside pundits Rachel Graham, a promising ex-player turned analyst, and Paul Corry, whose coaching badges and playing days fuel his tactical breakdowns. Tony O'Donoghue reports for both RTÉ News and Radio too, ensuring seamless cross-platform updates.

This double-header follows Ireland's gritty 3-2 triumph on 14 April in Poland, flipping a prior 2-1 friendly win in 2022 and boosting their Group B standing ahead of crunch ties against the Netherlands and France.[1][3][2] With over 16,000 tickets sold already, the Aviva atmosphere will be electric as Eileen Gleeson's side chase FIFA Women's World Cup 2027 qualification for Brazil – a tournament expanding to 32 teams. Ireland's recent form, blending youth and experience, positions them strongly; Poland, on 1 point from 0-1-2, fight to stay alive.[1][3]

UK fans can catch highlights post-match or stream via VPN for RTÉ Player, while radio offers free access nationwide. For more on Ireland's campaign, visit the FAI match preview.[3] Expect fierce battles, set-pieces and McCabe magic – don't miss Ireland's push for World Cup glory. With such esteemed voices like Ronan and Zambra, coverage elevates the beautiful game, underscoring women's football's surge in popularity across Ireland and the UK.

Article generated: 18 April 2026, 15:02 GMT