Cork Super Cup Set for Massive Crowd as Celtic Face Cork City in Historic Clash
Thousands of fans are expected to pack SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh this evening as Cork City hosts Scottish champions Celtic in the inaugural Cork Super Cup. Kick-off is scheduled for 6pm.
The highly anticipated friendly marks a special homecoming for Douglas native Adam Idah, who will play in his hometown for the first time since leaving College Corinthians as a teenager to pursue a professional career with Norwich City.
Celtic Return to Leeside After 12 Years
This evening’s game will be Celtic’s first trip to Cork since 2013, when a B team faced Cork City at Turner’s Cross. That encounter featured now-familiar names such as Fiacre Kelleher, who will line up for Cork City tonight, and Eoghan O’Connell.
The 2025 match is far more than a pre-season exercise. It’s a celebration of footballing heritage that stretches back decades from Jim Foley in the 1930s to Roy Keane, Colin Healy, Liam Miller, and now Adam Idah, the Rebel County has left its mark on Celtic lore. Even in the women’s game, Saoirse Noonan currently represents Cork with pride at Celtic FC.
Cork City Mid-Season, Celtic Just Starting
The match offers a fascinating clash of conditions. Cork City, managed by Gerard Nash, are in the thick of their domestic campaign, while Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side are just getting their pre-season underway. The Hoops have one warm-up match under their belts already, a 1-1 draw against Queen’s Park last Friday.
For Cork City, the Super Cup will be used to integrate new signings such as Fiacre Kelleher, Rory Feely, and goalkeeper David Odumosu. Nash is also expected to give opportunities to several promising U20 players, as part of the club’s long-standing tradition of using friendlies to transition academy talent into senior football.
All Eyes on Matthew Murray Amid Brighton Interest
One of the standout academy stars expected to feature is 17-year-old forward Matthew Murray, who has recently been linked with a move to Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion. Murray has already undergone a trial in England and will be eligible to sign a professional contract when he turns 18.
Murray has seen senior action already this season, including appearances in the Munster Senior Cup, where he featured in a 2-0 win over Carrigaline United and a loss to Galway United.
Celtic Captain Callum McGregor Praises Cork Connection
Celtic captain Callum McGregor spoke ahead of the game about the club’s deep ties with the city of Cork and the importance of reconnecting with Irish fans.
“It’s been a while since we’ve been in Cork, so it’s nice to come over and see the fans,” said McGregor. “We want to put on a show and build that connection. Celtic is a special club with a special fanbase and these moments are important.”
Event Details
- Match: Cork City vs Celtic
- Competition: Cork Super Cup
- Date: Tuesday, July 9, 2025
- Kick-off: 6:00 PM (local time)
- Venue: SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Cork
- Expected attendance: Thousands
