While the atmosphere inside Dublin’s Aviva Stadium remained mostly upbeat, tensions escalated on the streets of the capital after England’s 2-0 victory over Ireland. Gardaí confirmed multiple arrests following clashes between fans near the stadium after the match concluded.
Before the teams took to the field, discussions revolved around the reception that Declan Rice and Jack Grealish would receive, as well as Lee Carsley’s choice not to sing “God Save The King.” Irish fans expressed their sentiments by booing the English national anthem, followed by a spirited rendition of “Amhrán na bhFiann.”
Once the match began, it became apparent that England was performing at a higher level. In a poetic twist, former Republic of Ireland players Rice and Grealish scored for the Three Lions, giving England a 2-0 lead by halftime. Heimir Hallgrímsson’s team struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match. Thankfully, the chaos that marred the 1995 Lansdowne Road encounter, which was abandoned after 27 minutes due to fan clashes, did not repeat itself this time. However, reports indicated that not all was quiet outside the stadium.
According to the Irish Mirror, a Garda spokesperson stated that there were several arrests made following what they labeled a “minor disturbance” after the game. They did not specify whether those arrested were fans of Ireland, England, or a mix of both.
Videos circulating online show Gardaí on horseback patrolling the streets as the tensions unfolded. England supporters were heard chanting “Football’s coming home,” while clips of Irish fans shouting “Lizzy’s in a box” added to the chaotic scene. The spokesperson confirmed that disturbances occurred on Shelbourne Road following the disappointing match and noted that while several arrests were made, no injuries were reported.
Ahead of the match, The Times reported that all Garda leave in Dublin had been canceled, with approximately 350 specialist officers deployed as part of a significant security operation named Operation Dearóil, running from Friday until Saturday morning.
Despite the reported conflicts among some factions of fans, the overall atmosphere remained lighthearted as supporters from both sides filled Dublin’s pubs into Saturday evening. Footage from The Camden, a popular sports bar in the city center, displayed England and Ireland fans playfully exchanging chants, including one that referenced Declan Rice to the tune of “Zombie” by The Cranberries.
Credit: Joe Sports
