Ed Leahy

RTÉ Sport journalist

Matt Doherty celebrates his goal in Plovdiv with Mikey Johnston and Troy Parrott

Hallgrimsson sowing seeds for World Cup qualification

If Thursday night's impressive victory in Plovdiv whetted the appetite, there is a sense that tonight's clash with Bulgaria can kick-start Heimir Hallgrimsson's quest to qualify for the World Cup.

Soccer • 23 Mar

Heimir Hallgrimsson changed his immediate post-match opinion after watching the game back

Hallgrimsson clarifies 'emotional' post-match comments

Heimir Hallgrimsson admitted that his post-match comments regarding his players being too passive may have been a touch harsh having had a chance to re-watch the 2-1 victory over Bulgaria.

Soccer • 22 Mar

Heimir Hallgrimsson checks on Robbie Brady following his facial injury during the game in Bulgaria

Hallgrimsson braced for Bulgaria reaction in Dublin

More of the same, is the message that Heimir Hallgrimsson will send to his players going into Sunday's second leg of their UEFA Nations League play-off with Bulgaria.

Soccer • 21 Mar

Heimir Hallgrimsson salutes the travelling fans following the victory in Plovdiv

Character-building performance from Ireland in Plovdiv

Ireland were caught cold in Plovdiv, but eventually warmed up to beat Bulgaria and take an advantage into the second leg in Dublin on Sunday.

Soccer • 21 Mar

Robbie Brady, battered and bruised, reacts during second half

Azaz and Doherty earn Ireland deserved win in Bulgaria

Ireland survived an early scare to secure a well-earned 2-1 win against Bulgaria in tonight's UEFA Nations League play-off first leg encounter at the Hristo Botev Stadium in Plovdiv.

Soccer • 21 Mar

Troy Parrott, seen arriving at the stadium earlier this evening, has been handed a start

In-form Parrott starts in attacking Ireland formation

Troy Parrott has been handed the opportunity to stake his claim to lead the line for the upcoming World Cup qualifying campaign as the young Dubliner has been named to start up front against Bulgaria.

Soccer • 20 Mar

The Roman Theatre of Philippopolis in the heart of Plovdiv

Plovdiv Postcard: Dreaming of a team of Gary Breens

"Welcome to the oldest city in Europe" is a phrase you'll hear wherever you go in the Bulgarian town of Plovdiv, where Ireland will play their Nations League group decider match this evening.

Soccer • 20 Mar

Heimir Hallgrimsson chats with Rocco Vata while training at the Hristo Botev Stadium

Hallgrimsson eyeing form players to boost confidence

Heimir Hallgrimsson appeared cautiously confident as he spoke to the media at the Hristo Botev Stadium on the eve of Ireland's Nations League play-off with Bulgaria.

Soccer • 19 Mar

Will Troy Parrott and Robbie Brady start against Bulgaria?

Ireland can banish Wembley demons with Plovdiv plunder

Four months is a long time to wait, but Ireland finally get a chance to banish their Wembley nightmare as they take the field at the Hristo Botev Stadium in Plovdiv tonight.

Soccer • 05 Jun

Heimir Hallgrimsson and Nathan Collins spoke to the media ahead of the game

Relegation on mind as Ireland set for Bulgaria battle

Heimir Hallgrimsson is expecting a tough, tactical battle with Bulgaria as the two sides go head-to-head in Plovdiv tomorrow night.

Soccer • 19 Mar