Incredible stuff.
At the very least, Dundalk will be playing Europa League football this season after a stunning victory over BATE Borisov on a truly historic night at Tallaght Stadium.
Thanks to a comprehensive 3-0 victory on the night – sealed with goals from David McMillan (2) and Robbie Benson – Stephen Kenny’s men claimed a 3-1 aggregate win over a club who have featured regularly in the Champions League in recent years, an achievement that should not be underestimated.
In the process, Dundalk qualified for the Champions League play-offs and ensured that, at a minimum, they will be playing in the Europa League this season.
Not only that, but they ensured a payday of at least €5.4 million while doing so, a windfall beyond the wildest dreams of teams in the League of Ireland.
And, it was no more than they deserved. It will take a while to truly sink in, but here is some of the best immediate reaction to a truly memorable night for Dundalk and for football in this country.
Hearty congratulations to all involved.
Full Time: Dundalk FC 3-0 BATE Borisov. Dundalk qualify for the playoff round of the UEFA Champions League.
— Dundalk FC (@DundalkFC) August 2, 2016
That Bate team have beaten Roma and Bayern Munich in the past few seasons. Incredible stuff from Dundalk. Congrats.
— YBIG (@YouBoysInGreen) August 2, 2016
What a great night for @DundalkFC tonight. Well done to Stephen Kenny & the players on a fantastic effort. #LOIinEurope
— Kevin Kilbane (@kdkilbane77) August 2, 2016
Unbelievable. Dundalk win 3-0. One of the best achievements from an Irish football team at any level.
— Daniel McDonnell (@McDonnellDan) August 2, 2016
https://twitter.com/RichieMcCormack/status/760580261553770496
BATE BANANA SKIN – GO ON THE TOWN! WHAT A RESULT #Dundalk pic.twitter.com/l7crVSJfDz
— Ian Dempsey (@IanDempsey) August 2, 2016
Been a #LOI fan all my life and it's a small community but results like tonight show that LOI teams can compete. Incredible 👏🏼👏🏼
— Alan Kelly (@alanrefkelly) August 2, 2016
What an incredible night for the @SSEAirtricityLg and for Irish football! Well done @DundalkFC! 🇮🇪👊🏻🙌🏻 https://t.co/lDsxUxLX1Z
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) August 2, 2016
This would be a remarkable result for Dundalk. Last time this amount of money came to Dundalk, there was a fleet of sirens after it.
— Declan Varley (@declanvarley) August 2, 2016
