Josh Cullen and Gavin McAteer named to start for Ireland in Under-17 World Cup

Josh Cullen will make his World Cup debut for the Republic of Ireland, while Gavin McAteer makes his first start as they face Paraguay in Doha.

Milford man McAteer came on in their opening group game at the Under-17 Qatar World Cup as they defeated Panama, while Donegal Town native Cullen has yet to make an appearance at the finals.

The Finn Harps pair will hope to get a result against the South American side, with a draw being enough for the Republic of Ireland to win the group.

Colin O’Brien’s side confirmed their progression to the knockouts on Saturday after beating Uzbekistan 2-1 to make it two wins from two in Group J.

Going one down after a goal from Abubakir Shukurullayev, Grady McDonnell equalised before half time, and a Michael Noonan goal with 15 minutes to play ensured Ireland would go through to the last 32.

READ NEXT: Milford’s Megan McGinley receives first call-up for Republic of Ireland U15s

Ireland won their opening game against Panama 4-1 last Wednesday, with Jaden Umeh, Kian McMahon-Brown, Noonan and Max Kovalevskis scoring for Colin O’Brien’s side, with Moises Richards hitting a late consolation for the Panamanians as McAteer came on with 12 minutes to play.

Finn Harps and Ballyshannon goalkeeper Corey Cummins-Sheridan is named on the bench, with Alex Noonan starting between the sticks for the third game in a row.

The game will be shown live on RTÉ2 and the RTÉ Player, with kick-off at 1.30pm Irish time.