WORLD CUP DAILY: The return of the Duffer | LOI is back | The Azteca rocks thanks to Jimenez

On Friday's Football Daily, Phil Egan brings news from the World Cup, Ireland and the League of Ireland. FAI confirms Ireland’s Nations League matches against Israel will be played at a neutral venue behind closed doors following UEFA approval.Growing pressure from pro-Palestine groups and recent protests influenced debate around hosting Israel in Dublin.Damien Duff returns to frontline coaching after being appointed Brentford assistant manager under Keith Andrews.Duff reunites with Andrews after their previous spell together in Stephen Kenny’s Republic of Ireland coaching setup.Brentford move marks Duff’s first role since stepping down as Shelbourne manager last year.Reflection on Duff’s remarkable managerial journey, culminating in Shelbourne’s first league title in 18 years.South Korea come from behind to defeat Czechia 2-1 in their opening FIFA World Cup match.Mexico make a winning start on home soil with a 2-0 victory over South Africa at the Azteca Stadium.Opening World Cup fixtures feature red cards, standout goals and an impressive tournament launch ceremony.Newsround contributors debate their earliest World Cup memories and the tournaments that defined generations.Dion Fanning revisits Euro 2016’s “Battle of Marseille” and the chaos surrounding England and Russia supporters.Discussion on whether Ireland could have prospered in Group A had they qualified for the World Cup.League of Ireland action returns with leaders Shamrock Rovers travelling to champions Shelbourne in a major Friday night clash.Cape Verde international Pico Lopes speaks about representing both Ireland and Cape Verde ahead of a high-profile friendly against Spain.Legendary commentator George Hamilton shares insights into the power of silence and timing during sport’s biggest moments.World Cup Daily on Off The Ball, brought to you by Lynx, “A Proud Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup 2026“. Smell Your Best When You Look Your WorstBecome a member and sign up at offtheball.com/join