Dublin's iconic Croke Park stadium will host a soccer match for the first time in nearly two decades when Leeds United take on Manchester United in a pre-season friendly on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. The match marks the return of soccer to the historic GAA stadium, which last hosted the sport in 2010.
Croke Park first opened its doors to soccer in 2007, when the Republic of Ireland played Wales in a Six Nations rugby match, followed by soccer internationals during the renovation of Lansdowne Road. The stadium, owned by the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), has a capacity of 82,300, making it the third-largest stadium in Europe.
The upcoming friendly is part of both clubs' pre-season preparations for the 2026-27 season. Manchester United, managed by Erik ten Hag, and Leeds United, under Daniel Farke, are expected to field strong squads. Tickets for the match sold out within hours of going on sale, reflecting the high demand from fans in Ireland.
The return of soccer to Croke Park is significant for Irish sports fans, who have fond memories of the stadium hosting international matches during the Lansdowne Road redevelopment. The GAA has confirmed that the pitch will be in pristine condition, with a temporary grass surface laid over the existing turf.
