Friday's episode of The Late Late Show was a toast to all things Irish, and what better way to honour our country than by reuniting the legendary Italia 90 Irish soccer team?
Celebrating 35 years since they lifted the nation's spirits by reaching the quarter-finals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup, host Patrick Kielty brought the squad together to commemorate their historic feat.
The team members reminisced about their strong bonds and the unwavering support from fans, sharing humorous anecdotes from their time on and off the field.
Charlie O'Leary, the beloved kit-man of the team, also joined the show, charming viewers with his wit and humour. At 101 years old, he had everyone in stitches with his playful jabs at manager Jack Charlton and the team.
Fans watching from home were quick to share their delight on social media at seeing the team reunited, reports RSVP Live.
"Italia 90 was amazing and conjures up the most lovely memories of childhood that summer. Living for every game and the neighbourhood piling into the local to watch the matches," reminisced one social media user.
"Nostalgia trip down memory lane. The Irish team of 1990 World Cup. They brought happiness to many in dark times," commented another fan.
One viewer expressed a particular fondness for Charlie: "Charlie O'Leary is still a gas man at 101 years old; I'd say he'd have a fair few more stories to tell.
"Best Late Late in a long time. Great seen the legends of 1990 together," praised another viewer.
"I never thought I'd see a time when I'd be crying tears of unbridled joy whilst reminiscing of Italia 90 watching the Late Late Show. Wouldn't mind joining them on the high stool , they must have some unbelievable stories. Will we ever get to hold our breath as a nation again?" pondered one viewer.
"Is it an impossible task to explain to anyone under the age of 30 about the magic of the Jack Charlton era?" queried another viewer.
"Kevin Sheedy was an unbelievable player. Bullet of a left foot" praised a fan.
"Nothing makes me more proud to be Irish than reminiscing 35 years later about exiting a world cup at the quarter-final stage, and all those involved are still National heroes. Golden era and great times," expressed another fan.
"Haven't seen the Late Late Show in ages but loving the 90s world cup nostalgia.. thanks for the memories guys! Now watching the very talented Cian DuCrot... great performer," shared another viewer.
"Great memories of Italia '90. A golden moment in Irish sport. Great to see the legends on the Late Late Show," reminisced another viewer.
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English (United States) ·