Why Not?

[theworm2345]

Why doesnt Ireland ever play in America any more? I think they canceled the US Cup of whatever it was, but with all of the supporters over here I think it would be great to see them. There could definitly be a friendly set up. Or even Ireland coming over and playing some other team here (like Northern Ireland played Romania this summer and there were multiple teams playing here in Chicago). Just a thought.

[Fergie's Son]

They last played in the US in 2000 I believe. They played in Chicago against Mexico. Perhaps it was 2001.

I think a lot of players dislike the end of season tournaments so far from home. Also, the Americans don't need to rely on the "US Cup" any more as they have improved enough that other teams no longer need to be incentivized to play them.

[Peadar]

Very simple reason, the USA have qualified for the last two World Cups and play their own games when the Euro's are on.

[Metrostars]

I think a lot of players dislike the end of season tournaments so far from home. ...

Bingo... that explains why we don't qualify for the last World Cup and Euro Championships :p

As for the US Cup, don't expect to see it anytime soon. With the Concacaf Gold Cup now an every 2 year event (next in 2007) played around June in the US, plus also the possibility of the US joining the Copa America. Plus early World Cup qualifying will begin early Summer 2008.

Still don't know why Ireland didnt have any friendlies after Chile. The poor players must have been so tired :p Stan's theory that end of season games for jaded players are not beneficial doesnt jive. Look at the good starts the Germans and Czechs have made for the Euros and they were playing well into June. We could have played decent teams who didnt qualify such as Denmark, Greece, Norway, Urugua, Belgium.