The 2025 League of Ireland First Division season gets underway with a host of intriguing matchups, including the return of Dundalk to the second tier.
The 2025 League of Ireland First Division season kicks off this evening with four games scheduled in the second-tier and one fixture set for tomorrow. All eyes will be on the recently relegated Dundalk , who are making their first appearance in the First Division since 2008. The Lilywhites will be eager to reclaim their spot in the top flight under new manager Ciarán Kilduff, beginning their campaign with a home match against Athlone Town .
Last season saw Cork City dominate the First Division, securing the championship with a comfortable 22-point lead. UCD, Wexford, and Athlone battled fiercely for the remaining playoff positions, with UCD ultimately clinching second place by a narrow margin over Wexford on goal difference. These two rivals will renew their rivalry on opening night, adding further intrigue to an already exciting start. Bray Wanderers, who narrowly missed out on promotion after Drogheda United triumphed in the promotion/relegation playoff, will be looking to build on their impressive run last season. They face a tough test against Longford Town, led by Wayne Groves in his first full season at the helm. Cobh Ramblers have made significant offseason acquisitions and aim to challenge for the top spot. Their campaign commences under the Friday Night Lights against Tommy Barrett's Treaty United. In another intriguing matchup, Finn Harps embark on the longest journey in the division to face Kerry FC, who finished at the bottom of the table last season. With a mix of new players, increased financial resources at some clubs, and other changes across the board, predicting the outcome of the First Division remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: the competition promises to be fiercely contested and filled with thrilling moments.
LEAGUE OF IRELAND FIRST DIVISION DUNDALK ATHLONE TOWN UCD WEXFORD BRAY WANDERERS LONGFORD TOWN COBH RAMBLERS TREATY UNITED FINN HARPS KERRY FC FOOTBALL SOCCER IRELAND
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