European triumph for Shelbourne secured by John Martin against Rijeka, with the upcoming match at Tolka Park
Shelbourne Advance to Europa League Playoff Round
Shelbourne FC, the Irish club, is one step closer to competing in the main Europa League competition after a hard-fought victory over HNK Rijeka in the third qualifying round. The playoff matches will determine their final destination, with either PAOK FC or Wolfsberger AC standing in their way.
Ahead of the match, Joey O'Brien, Shelbourne's manager, expressed his confidence in the team's ability to win. His faith was not misplaced, as Shelbourne demonstrated resilience and skill throughout the game.
The opening stages of the game were marked by a defensive strategy from both teams. However, Shelbourne managed to equalize with a set-piece goal from their first corner of the game, scored by Bone. The equalizer gave the team a much-needed boost, and they continued to press forward.
Martin, who came on as a substitute for Boyd due to an injury, surged forward for Shelbourne and shot just over the crossbar. Rijeka also had their chances, with Jankovic's low drive being saved by Speel in the first half.
The second half saw an increase in attacking play from both teams. Rijeka created their only clear opening of the half, but Speel made a superb tip-over save to deny Simon Butic. Despite Rijeka's efforts, it was Shelbourne who took the lead with a brilliant winner on 70 minutes, scored by Martin from a cross by Wood.
Shelbourne defended tenaciously in the latter stages of the game, with captain Paddy Barrett making a brave block on a shot from Tiago Dantas. A VAR penalty check was needed after a shot from Jankovic struck Bone's arm by his side, but the game ended without a penalty being awarded.
The second leg will take place at Tolka Park next Tuesday. If Shelbourne can secure a win or a draw, they will advance to the Europa League playoff round. Defeat for Shelbourne could result in a repeat of their Champions League first-round clash with Linfield in the Conference League playoffs.
Should Shelbourne progress past this playoff round, they will qualify for the Europa League group stage, which comes with a significant potential prize fund. UEFA prize money for Europa League participation includes a base participation fee for reaching the group stage, additional bonuses for wins and draws in the group matches, and further financial rewards for progressing into subsequent knockout rounds.
While exact prize amounts for the 2025/26 season are not detailed in the available sources, historically, UEFA Europa League group stage entry awards several million euros, with greater sums for match results and advancement. Shelbourne's progression thus represents both sporting achievement and notable financial gain.
The playoff matches will be held on August 21 and 28, 2025. This playoff round is the final hurdle for Shelbourne's 2025 European campaign to reach the main Europa League competition. The team will need to continue their form and determination to secure a place in the group stage and potentially compete against some of Europe's top clubs.
References:
- Shelbourne advance to Europa League playoff round
- Shelbourne beat Rijeka to reach Europa League playoffs
- UEFA Europa League prize money
- Historical UEFA Europa League prize money
- Shelbourne's European journey in the 2025/26 UEFA Europa League
Shelbourne FC's victory over HNK Rijeka propels them into the Europa League playoff round, where they will face either PAOK FC or Wolfsberger AC for a spot in the main competition. As they progress, they stand to gain financial rewards, with the Europa League group stage offering significant prize funds.
Should Shelbourne successfully navigate the playoff round, they will enter the group stage, giving them a potential opportunity to compete against some European leagues' top clubs, and securing a substantial financial gain.
