England U18s Take on Northern Ireland in Truro: Centenary Shield Showdown

Truro to Host Prestigious International Schoolboy Football Match

Truro City Football Club will host a thrilling Schools’ Association Football International Board (SAFIB) Centenary Shield fixture between England Under-18 schoolboys and Northern Ireland on Friday, 14th March 2025. The match, kicking off at 7.30pm, marks a major return for international schoolboy football to Cornwall.

This is England’s second match of the 2025 Centenary Shield, following their opening away game against Scotland on Friday, 28th February.

A Return to the Duchy

The event brings schoolboy international football back to Truro for the first time since 2015, when England faced Wales at the club’s former Treyew Road ground. Hosting such a prestigious competition is a proud moment for the club, said Eric Perez, Truro City’s executive chairman.

“This is a proud moment for us, as the home of Truro City will once again play host to such a prestigious event,” said Eric. “We are thrilled to see the ESFA returning to Truro and look forward to an exciting match that showcases the talent and passion of young international players.”

Tickets and Viewing Options

Fans are encouraged to turn out for what is expected to be a bumper crowd. Tickets are priced at £10 for standing admission, £12 for reserved seating in the main grandstand, and £7 for concessions. For those unable to attend in person, the match will be streamed live via the England Schools’ Football Association’s YouTube channel.

Centenary Shield History

The SAFIB Centenary Shield, first contested in 1973, features under-18 squads from England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. Teams compete in a round-robin format, with the top team crowned champions. Northern Ireland are the reigning champions, having taken the title in 2024 after England shared the trophy with Wales in 2023.

Supporting Young Talent

Nick Loftus, chairman of the English Schools’ Football Association (ESFA), emphasised the importance of providing opportunities for young players through international fixtures.

“Schools football serves several valuable purposes,” said Nick. “What better way is there than showcasing some of the elite-level talent in our schools through these international schoolboy fixtures?”

Nick also expressed gratitude to Truro City for hosting the match, adding, “I would like to thank all those people who have an interest in and who support the ESFA’s international programme, particularly the team at Truro City, who will be working hard to create a memorable experience for all involved.”

Tickets for the event can by purchased here

Photo Credit: Phil Mingo/PPAUK