Josh Cullen and Gavin McAteer help Ireland top Group J at Under-17 World Cup

Josh Cullen and Gavin McAteer were part of the Republic of Ireland side that ended Group J unbeaten as they topped their group at the Under-17 World Cup in Qatar.

The Finn Harps duo played 62 minutes of their 0-0 draw with Panama to ensure their status as group winners, following wins over Panama and Uzbekistan in their previous matches.

It was a first appearance for Donegal Town man Cullen, while Milford native McAteer was making a first start, following on from his substitute appearance in the opening match as they defeated Panama 4-1.

Ballyshannon native and fellow Harps man Corey Cummins-Sheridan was an unused substitute.

Ireland defeated Uzbekistan 2-1 on Saturday, despite 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: ‘Clear pathway’ as Finn Harps deliver updated two-phase plan for new stadium

That came after 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.

Colin O’Brien’s side will have to wait until later this evening to find out whether they will face a best third-placed team or a group runner-up in the last 32.