Shelbourne - Cork City
When: 20:45
Where: Ireland. Premier League
Shelbourne
Shelbourne currently sits in 5th place with 32 points from 24 games and a goal difference of 27:26. The team plays pragmatically and focuses on the result, which is reflected in a solid defense and modest offensive actions. Although the last five games yielded only one win, two draws and two losses, the form is stable, albeit not spectacular. Tactically, Shelbourne mostly operates with a 4-3-3, which often shifts to a 4-5-1 in defense, emphasizing a compact midfield and wing attacks. At home, the team plays more confidently and offensively and will set the tone against Cork City.
Cork City
Cork City is last in the table with 15 points from 22 games and a goal difference of 23:38. The last five games brought no wins, only three draws and two losses. The team shows weaknesses in defense, which often appears fragile and rarely puts pressure on the opponent. Tactically, Cork City varies between 4-4-2 and 4-2-3-1, but execution is weak and fast counterattacks usually do not lead to shots on goal. Away from home, the necessary stability and security is lacking, which is further compounded by several injured key players.
Injuries
Shelbourne has no injured players, giving the team full flexibility and stability. In contrast, Cork City is missing important players such as Conor Drinan (cruciate ligament rupture until September 2024), Benny Couto (ankle injury until April 2025), and Ruairi Keating (Achilles tendon rupture until January 2026). The absence of these key players significantly affects especially the offensive creativity and defensive organization.
Direct Encounters
In recent years, Shelbourne has had the upper hand against Cork City, with three wins and two draws in the last five direct duels. The last two encounters in 2025 each ended 1:1, showing that Cork City has become somewhat more competitive but is still unable to defeat Shelbourne. This favorite role clearly favors Shelbourne.
Match Prediction
Considering the league position, form, injury situation, and direct confrontations, Shelbourne is the clear favorite. The team plays confidently at home and will try to break the "points drought" with a win. Cork City, on the other hand, is out of form, heavily weakened personnel-wise, and defensively vulnerable. It is expected that Shelbourne will control the game and win with a solid performance, ideally by at least two goals.
My tip: Shelbourne win (1.55)
Tip