The head quarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association will host its first international soccer match when the Republic of Ireland play Wales in a Euro 2008 qualifier. The amateur association had banned foreign sports from being played on its pitches around the country, however the ban was recently lifted after much lobbying when it was decided to redevelop Lansdowne Road which was home to both Irish Football and Rugby.

Croke Park dwarfs Lansdowne Road in capacity with over 82,000 compared with just under 50,000 in the old stadium. It is used to holding massive events the Special Olympics World Summer Games ceremonies were held there on their first venture outside the USA. There have been concerts by Robbie Williams and U2, it venue was even host to a Muhammad Ali fight.

A fight will be what is required of the players if they are to begin their ascent of the group table in the hope of qualifying for next years finals. Wales have little hope of qualifying and with the clubs putting pressure on manager John Toshack to rest their players he is not being helped. However the clubs and press know that he is too stubborn to do as he is told and will be sure to play his best eleven.

Staunton has mentioned how proud the players will be when they walk out on Saturday. Although Ireland’s form in the qualifying campaign so far has not invoked much pride, in fact it has made many question Staunton’s pedigree for such a high office. Like his England counterpart he knows that the next two games are must win.