Milford delight as McAteer helps Ireland open Fifa U-17 World Cup in style

Gavin McAteer was a second half substitute as the Republic of Ireland opened the Fifa U-17 World Cup with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Panama in Doha, Qatar.

The Milford native played the final 12 minutes, while Donegal Town defender Josh Cullen and Ballyshannon goalkeeper Corey Cummins-Sheridan, with all three from Finn Harps, also part of the squad.

The young Boys in Green delivered a dominant performance in hot and humid conditions against a more experienced Panamanian side, who were competing in their fourth U17 World Cup.

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The scoring was opened by Jaden Umeh, who rose highest to head home from a corner in the 17th minute. Shortly before the interval, good work from Max Kovalevskis and Ramon Martos set up Kian McMahon-Brown, who finished with a low shot into the bottom corner to double Ireland's advantage.

In the second half, Ireland continued their dominance, adding two more goals just before the hour mark. Michael Noonan scored the third goal from an Ade Solanke cross, and Max Kovalevskis quickly followed up with the fourth, showing tenacity to beat the goalkeeper to the ball.

Panama managed a late consolation goal through Moises Richards, but it did little to dampen the Irish spirits. The 4-1 win marked a dream start to their Group J campaign, and the team will now prepare for their next match against Uzbekistan on Saturday.