The FAI today confirmed the worst kept secret in Irish football – that the Republic of Ireland will host Argentina as the first senior international soccer match at the Aviva Stadium. The rebuilt stadium is set to open in 2010 and is due to host the Europa League final in 2011.

The game against Argentina will take place in Dublin on Wednesday, 11th August 2010 – the date of the first international fixtures following the finals of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Speaking at the announcement, FAI chief executive John Delaney said “I am very happy to have reached this agreement with Argentina, who will be fitting opponents to mark an opening international match of such significance. Aviva Stadium will be joint owned by the FAI and the IRFU and represents the single largest infrastructural project in the Association’s history. I look forward to welcoming Argentina to Dublin next year to help us celebrate that achievement.”