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Feb 2026
12m 53s

FOOTBALL DAILY: Ireland the 'island team...

OTB Sports
About this episode

On Thursday's Football Daily, Phil Egan brings you the latest from the Czech camp ahead of next month's playoff with Ireland, plus Manchester City secure their spot in the EFL Cup final with a dominant 5–1 aggregate victory over Newcastle, setting up a Wembley showdown with Arsenal.

Omar Marmoush’s first-half brace and a Tijani Reijnders goal put City firmly in control in the second leg, despite a late Anthony Elanga consolation for Newcastle.

Pep Guardiola praises his side’s performance and questions why new January signing Marc Guehi is currently ineligible for the final.

Newcastle’s trophy defence ends, with Eddie Howe admitting missed chances proved costly but insisting there’s still plenty to fight for this season.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot highlights the signing of France U21 defender Jeremy Jacquet as part of the club’s long-term recruitment model.

The League of Ireland returns, headlined by champions Shamrock Rovers hosting Dundalk with live commentary on Newstalk and GoLoud.

The LOI Pod returns for the new season, debating Shamrock Rovers’ defensive depth ahead of the campaign.

Dion Fanning discusses Czechia boss Miroslav Koubek’s “island team” comments about Ireland ahead of their World Cup playoff.

Rangers continue their strong run with a 5–1 win over Kilmarnock, closing the gap on Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts.

Rangers manager Danny Rohl reflects on the club’s momentum since his arrival and their surge up the table.

Newell’s Old Boys confirm plans to try to bring Lionel Messi back to his boyhood club in 2027 amid uncertainty over his long-term future.

Former Chelsea and Everton midfielder Pat Nevin joins Off The Ball Breakfast to reflect on football nostalgia and how the modern game compares to the past.

Become a member and sign up at offtheball.com/join

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