Ireland fight back to win away to Bulgaria

Finn Azaz and Matt Doherty scored first-half headers as the Republic of Ireland battled back to beat Bulgaria 2-1 in the first leg of their Nations League play-off. Marin Petkov fired the hosts into an early lead at a sparsely-populated Hristo Botev Stadium in Plovdiv but midfielder Azaz quickly levelled with his first international goal.

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England demolish ten man Ireland to secure promotion

England sealed promotion to the UEFA Nations League top tier after a 5-0 win over Republic of Ireland. After a goalless first half, the game changed when England were awarded a penalty when Liam Scales brought down Jude Bellingham. Scales was sent off and Harry Kane scored the penalty. Anthony Gordon, Conor Gallagher, Jarrod Bowen and Taylor Harwood-Bellis also found themselves on the scoresheet.

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Ferguson on target as Ireland edge out Finland

Evan Ferguson’s goal and a superb penalty save from Caoimhin Kelleher helped Ireland to a 1-0 win over Finland in their UEFA Nations League clash. Finland were twice denied by the woodwork before Brighton striker Ferguson headed in from a Mikey Johnston cross on the stroke of half-time. The visitors were pushing for a deserved leveller when they were awarded a 77th-minute penalty after a VAR check for a handball by Ferguson.

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Thomas Tuchel hopes he can win over critics as England manager

Thomas Tuchel said England can “free ourselves from history” and work to “make our dream come true” at the 2026 World Cup following his appointment as head coach. German Tuchel, 51, was confirmed as the next Three Lions boss on Wednesday and will officially take charge on 1 January after signing an 18-month contract.

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Thomas Tuchel set to be named as new England manager

Thomas Tuchel has agreed to become England’s manager after talks with the Football Association ­accelerated on Tuesday. The 51-year-old will be the third foreign manager of the men’s team and the first from Germany. The FA has had Tuchel on its shortlist for finding Gareth Southgate’s permanent successor that also included Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola and the interim manager, Lee Carsley, among others.

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