This night will live long in the memories of every Dundalk and League of Ireland fan.
The Lilywhites secured a historic 3-0 (3-1 agg) win over BATE Borisov in Tallaght Stadium on Tuesday night to secure passage into the play-off round for the Champions League.
The result guarantees the League of Ireland side a €7 million windfall, at least eight more matches in Europe and brings them within two games from the Champions League group stage.
WATCH: @DundalkFC defeat BATE 3-0 to keep Champions League dream alive https://t.co/DlKMwHCM2l
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) August 2, 2016
After the game, Dundalk captain Stephen O’Donnell gave a very memorable interview on the pitch during the live broadcast in which he perfectly summed up the club’s amazing achievement. O’Donnell praised his teammates and dedicated the win to the other League of Ireland teams.
“All we wanted was respect in the league. There’s some decent players in this league and this for everyone that plays in the league, not just Dundalk. Now maybe we won’t be the laughing stock, we show we can compete.”
“You saw the likes of Daryl Horgan and Patrick McElhinney tonight could grace any stage, you’re not telling me that they’re not better than some of the players that supposedly play at the higher level. Unbelievable for the whole team.”
Although he’s celebrating the amazing achievement tonight, O’Donnell signed off by letting everyone know that their European run isn’t over yet.
“This is the best of my career, the best of all the lads’ careers. As I said, no one gave us a chance but to win 3-0 (is an) unbelievable achievement. Hopefully this is the start of our adventures.”
"This is the best ever" – @DundalkFC Captain Stephen O'Donnell says tonight was for the entire #LOI! #LOIinEurope https://t.co/YAJRiyWUvt
— eir Sport (@eirSport) August 2, 2016
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