Apr 2, 2026, 01:48 PM
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Manchester United will face Leeds United in a preseason friendly at Ireland's largest stadium, Croke Park, which will host its first-ever club soccer game on Aug. 12.
The 82,300-capacity venue in Dublin, is home of the Gaelic Athletic Association and for many years has staged Gaelic sports events.
Croke Park last hosted a soccer game in November 2009 when Ireland lost to France 1-0 in the first leg of a World Cup playoff that erupted in controversy during the second leg because of Thierry Henry's handball in the lead-up to William Gallas' decisive extra-time goal.
Man United will face Leeds in pre-season friendly at Croke Park. Getty
United's director of football Jason Wilcox told the club's official website that there is lots of excitement about playing in Dublin before the new season starts.
"Playing an important fixture against one of our biggest rivals gives us a fantastic opportunity to connect with our supporters in Ireland," Wilcox said.
"Their passion and energy will be invaluable as we build momentum and ensure the squad is in the strongest possible shape for the start of the 2026-27 season."
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Last year, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings played at Croke Park -- the first time an NFL regular-season game was held in Ireland.
The Steelers and Chicago Bears also played a preseason game there in 1997.
A venue deeply rooted in Irish culture, Croke Park also hosted a non-title bout between Muhammad Ali and Alvin Lewis in July 1972.
United will travel to Dublin on April 6 for a three-day training camp, before their return to Premier League action against Leeds at Old Trafford on April 13.
PA and The Associated Press contributed to this report.