Jackie's Army set for reunion to mark milestone Italia '90 anniversary

The original Boys in Green are set to reunite to relive the magic of Italia '90 next year.

Paul McGrath, John Aldridge, Andy Townsend and Packie Bonner are among the icons of Irish football who will be part of Italia '90: An Evening With The Greatest Football Team next March and takes place at the RDS in Dublin and Cork's Opera House over St Patrick’s Weekend 2025.

Jackie’s Army will mark 35 years since Ireland first qualified for the World Cup.

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Mick McCarthy said: "It is a true honour and a pleasure to be reunited with my teammates who are some of the greatest legends of Irish football for this magnificent event.

"When I was asked if I wanted to be involved I didn't have to think twice about it. And now that I've seen the full line-up it's just adding to the excitement! Italia '90 was such a significant time for all of us, players and fans.

"It will be fantastic to relive those memories with former teammates and fans alike."

Mick McCarthy ahead of Ireland's clash with England at Italia 90
(Image: ©INPHO/James Meehan)

Some of the questions could put ‘em under pressure with David O’Leary recalling the penalty against Romania that had a nation hold its breath, and Kevin Sheedy reliving the ecstasy of his late equaliser against England and the agony of a pass that led to Ireland’s exit and handed Italy a place in the semi-final.

Captain Fantastic, Mick McCarthy will lead out the star-studded squad, which also includes Ronnie Whelan, Niall Quinn, Tony Cascarino, Ray Houghton, Kevin Moran and Steve Staunton, as they reflect on their achievements under manager, Jack Charlton and remember a unique chapter in Irish sporting and cultural history.

Dermot Usher, of Rebel Army Events, who are hosting the events, said: "Whether we travelled to the games, watched them on TV, had the posters on our walls or collected the stickers, we all have memories of Italia ’90 that evoke the sense of pride and possibility that gripped the nation and made it a summer we’ll never forget.

"It’s a real thrill to gather so many of that exceptional Irish squad together and get their perspective on an event that has such a special place in our collective memory and national experience.

"It's an opportunity for the team to have a fantastic weekend together and support our endeavours to improve what we offer to our Club and Community in Cork City FC."

Italia '90: A Night With The Greatest Football Team takes place at the RDS Concert Hall, Dublin on Friday, March 14 and Cork Opera House on Sunday, March 16 2025.

Tickets are available at rebelarmyevents.com.

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