Après Match comedian Barry Murphy confirmed as MC for events in Dublin and Cork
John Aldridge, Andy Townsend and Packie Bonner are among the icons of Irish football who will be reliving the magic of Italia ’90 next March. Presented by Rebel Army Events, Italia ’90: An Evening With The Greatest Football Team marks 35 years since Ireland first qualified for the World Cup and takes place at the RDS, Dublin and Cork Opera House over St Patrick’s Weekend 2025.
Comedian and one of the hosts of Après Match, Barry Murphy, is the latest name confirmed for the event and he will interview each of the squad in both locations.
Some of the questions could put ‘em under pressure with David O’Leary recalling the penalty against Romania that had a nation hold its breath, and Kevin Sheedy reliving the ecstasy of his late equaliser against England and the agony of a pass that led to Ireland’s exit and handed Italy a place in the semi-final.
Captain Fantastic, Mick McCarthy will lead out the star-studded squad, which includes Ronnie Whelan, Niall Quinn, Tony Cascarino, Ray Houghton, Kevin Moran and Steve Staunton, as they reflect on their achievements under manager, Jack Charlton and remember a unique chapter in Irish sporting and cultural history.
Dermot Usher, of Rebel Army Events said: “Whether we travelled to the games, watched them on TV, had the posters on our walls or collected the stickers, we all have memories of Italia ’90 that evoke the sense of pride and possibility that gripped the nation and made it a summer we’ll never forget. It’s a real thrill to gather so many of that exceptional Irish squad together and get their perspective on an event that has such a special place in our collective memory and national experience. It’s an opportunity for the team to have a fantastic weekend together and support our endeavours to improve what we offer to our club and community in Cork City FC.”
Mick McCarthy added: “It is a true honour and a pleasure to be reunited with my teammates who are some of the greatest legends of Irish football for this magnificent event. When I was asked if I wanted to be involved I didn’t have to think twice about it. And now that I’ve seen the full line-up it’s just adding to the excitement. Italia ’90 was such a significant time for all of us, players and fans. It will be fantastic to relive those memories with former teammates and fans alike.”
Italia ’90: A Night With The Greatest Football Team takes place at the RDS Concert Hall, Dublin on Friday, 14th March and Cork Opera House on Sunday, 16th March 2025. Tickets are available at rebelarmyevents.com
