McAteer helps Ireland U-17s make history with first ever World Cup qualification

Milford native Gavin McAteer played a key role in the Republic of Ireland U-17's dominant 5-0 victory over Iceland, providing the assist for the fifth and final goal as they secured a historic place at the U-17 World Cup in Qatar this November.

Ireland had been aiming to qualify for the European Championship finals in Albania this summer, but despite finishing second in their Round 2 Group A campaign, only the top team advanced — meaning Belgium edged them out.

However, with four of the best runners-up across the seven groups also earning a place at the World Cup, Ireland’s six-point tally and impressive +6 goal difference ensured they would make history by qualifying for the tournament for the first time.

Finn Harps midfielder McAteer was absent from Ireland’s opening two matches — a narrow 1-0 defeat to Belgium followed by a 2-0 victory over Poland, the group hosts.

But the 16-year-old made an impact after coming off the bench with 10 minutes remaining in the final fixture, setting up Charles Akinrintayo’s goal to round off the emphatic win.

Jaden Umeh struck twice for Ireland, with Billy Canny and Finn Sherlock also finding the net before McAteer’s introduction in Gryfice.