Ireland entered into the inaugural International Challenge Trophy (2007/08) and narrowly missed out qualification to the Final of the tournament.

 

Managed by Pat Fenlon, the Irish team began their campaign with a 2-0 victory over Slovakia (match report) in November 2007. Their 100% start to the campaign was continued in May 2008 when a last minute goal from Stephen Rice gave the Boys in Green a 1-0 win away to Northern Ireland (match report).

 

With six points going into the final match, Ireland needed just one point against Belgium to reach the Final of the tournament. When Ger O'Brien equalised for Ireland with ten minutes to go, Ireland appeared destined for the Final. However, there was heartbreak for the young team as they conceded a goal in the 94th minute, as Belgium ran-out 2-1 winners (match report).

 

As a result, it was Belgium who qualified for the Final, defeating England to claim the championship.