OTB Football

Dr. Babak Fazooni, tutor at The Open University, joins Eoin to reflect on the power of football as both a distraction and a form of protest for the Iranian people throughout decades of authoritarian rule.

With members of the Iranian Women's team currently applying for asylum in Australia, Dr. Fazooni explains how the sport is deeply entrenched in Iranian feminism, as well as looking to a Men's World Cup where it seems increasingly less likely that Iranian players will take to the pitch come June.

FAI CEO David Courell sat down with OTB's David Wilson to speak about the new FAI strategy plan for 2026-29, the Player Pathway Plan, the Aligned Calendar and the prospect of the Israeli football team coming to Dublin later this year.
Republic of Ireland football on Off The Ball with Cadbury | #PaintMarchGreen #CadburySupporterAndAHalf
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On Tuesday's Football Daily, Phil Egan brings you news of the FAI Strategy plan, the pathways plan, action in the League of Ireland, the FA Cup and a look ahead to tonight's Champions League action.
FAI CEO David Courell tells David Wilson the latest update around the Israel game, and what the vision is for the FAI over the next four years.
Shelbourne FC surrender a two-goal lead as Shamrock Rovers FC fight back for a 2–2 draw in the League of Ireland Premier Division clash at Tolka Park.
Early goals from Harry Wood and John Martin put Shels in control before Rovers hit back.
John McGovern and Dylan Watts level the game as the Hoops salvage a point.
Reaction from managers Stephen Bradley and Joey O'Brien after a dramatic Dublin derby.
Preview of our live commentary as St Patrick's Athletic FC host Drogheda United FC at Richmond Park.
West Ham United FC reach the FA Cup quarter-finals after a penalty shoot-out win over Brentford FC.
Managers Nuno Espírito Santo and Keith Andrews react to a dramatic cup tie and a controversial Panenka attempt.
Quarter-final draw details as Chelsea FC face Port Vale FC while Manchester City FC meet Liverpool FC.
Arne Slot expects a “wall of sound” in Istanbul as Liverpool face Galatasaray SK in the UEFA Champions League.
Big European nights also for Newcastle United FC against FC Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur FC away to Atlético Madrid.
Kevin Kilbane joins the Football Show to discuss online abuse in football and the importance of staying in the Premier League.
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Ben Symes chats to Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley and Shelbourne manager Joey O'Brien after the sides draw 2-2 in tonight's derby game
The League of Ireland on Off The Ball

On Monday's Football Daily, Phil Egan brings you news of the League of Ireland, the FA Cup and the international game.
League of Ireland focus – Shamrock Rovers travel to Tolka Park to face Shelbourne in a Dublin derby with the Hoops looking to close the gap on leaders Bohemians.
Stephen Bradley preview – The Rovers boss reflects on the challenge of facing Shelbourne regardless of form.
Shels’ mixed start – Joey O’Brien’s side come into the game after a narrow derby defeat to St Patrick’s Athletic.
Athlone claim silverware – Athlone Town defeat Shelbourne 1-0 to win the President’s Cup ahead of the new Women’s National League season.
Dana Sheriff strikes – The returning American forward scores the decisive goal for last season’s double winners.
Evan Ferguson injury blow – The Roma loanee is set for ankle surgery and will miss Ireland’s upcoming playoff with Czechia.
World Cup hopes debate – David Sneyd and Keith Treacy discuss whether Ferguson could still feature at this summer’s World Cup if Ireland qualify.
Greg Cunningham interview – The former Ireland international recalls his breakthrough at Manchester City and Carlos Tevez’s influence.
Old Firm drama – Celtic defeat Rangers on penalties in the Scottish Cup quarter-final amid pitch-invasion scenes at Ibrox.
FA Cup storylines – Brentford boss Keith Andrews targets progression at West Ham, while Leeds and Southampton also advance.
Championship roundup – Middlesbrough strengthen their promotion push with a big win at QPR as Alan Browne gets on the scoresheet.
Global football headlines – Mass red cards in a fiery Cruzeiro-Atletico Mineiro final and geopolitical issues impacting Iraq’s World Cup playoff preparations.
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