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Northern Ireland Under-19 Futsal Trial Announced

Ambitious young players are invited to take their first step towards International Futsal as the Northern Ireland Futsal Federation in partnership with the Irish Football Association hosts an open trial later this month.

The session will take place at Newforge Sports Complex on Saturday 27th June, running from 19:00 to 21:00.

This trial offers a fantastic opportunity for male players aged 15 and above, who are eligible to represent Northern Ireland, to showcase their ability and potentially earn the chance to represent the Green and White Army at Under-19 level. Players must be born on or after 1st January 2007.

Importantly, participants do not need prior Futsal experience. The trial is open to players from all Futsal and footballing backgrounds who want to challenge themselves, develop new skills, and experience the fast-paced world of Futsal.

A £5 participation fee applies for each player attending and can register via the following link.

https://hub.klubfunder.com/NorthernIrelandFutsalFederation/payit/eventregistration/northern-ireland-u-19-trial/detail

This event represents a key pathway for talented young athletes to break into the International Futsal setup, as the sport continues to grow across Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland Drawn Against Poland and Bosnia & Herzegovina

in FIFA Futsal World Cup Main Round

Northern Ireland will face Poland and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group 5 of the FIFA Futsal World Cup main round qualifiers, following today’s official draw at UEFA Headquarters in Nyon.

Ranked 47th in Europe, Northern Ireland will take on a strong Polish side (12th) and an ambitious Bosnia and Herzegovina team (22nd) in what promises to be a challenging and exciting campaign.

Fixtures will be played home and away between October 2026 and April 2027, with dates yet to be confirmed.

This marks a historic step for Northern Ireland futsal, as the team prepares for its first-ever main round campaign and an opportunity to test itself against some of Europe’s top nations.

While Northern Ireland enters the group as underdogs, the squad is embracing the challenge with confidence and belief. Northern Ireland Futsal Federation Chair Jonathan Michael said, “This is exactly the level we want to be competing at. We respect the quality of Poland and Bosnia and Herzegovina, but we are excited to step onto the court and show how far Northern Ireland Futsal has come.”

The draw signals another milestone in the continued growth of Futsal in Northern Ireland. Facing higher-ranked opposition provides a platform not only to compete, but to inspire players and fans across the country.

With home fixtures on the horizon, supporters will have a chance to play their part in this journey and back a squad determined to rise to the occasion.

Northern Ireland now turns its focus to preparation, united in belief and ready to make its mark on the European stage.

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NIFF Seek Commercial Partners To GrowThe Game

The Northern Ireland Futsal Federation is growing, and we are looking for partners who want to grow with us.

Our mission has always been bigger than the game itself. We are about community, opportunity and creating a sport that brings people together. As we expand our reach, we are opening the door to commercial partners who believe in supporting something meaningful.

There are countless ways for brands to play a role in shaping our future. This is more than a sponsorship. It is a chance to champion local talent, support inclusive sport and build authentic connections with communities across Northern Ireland.

If you brands wants to be part of a movement that is making a real difference, we would love to start a conversation.

Please contact us at nifutsalfederation@hotmail.com or via our social media platforms.

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Sparta Belfast Crowned NI Futsal Super League Sparta Belfast Futsal Club have been crowned league champions for the fourth consecutive season, reaffirming their position as the dominant force in Northern Irish futsal. This year’s title was secured in emphatic fashion, with the team completing yet another unbeaten domestic campaign. The achievement reflects the exceptional standards maintained by the players, coaching staff, and everyone involved with the club, whose collective commitment has driven Sparta to sustained excellence.This latest triumph not only strengthens Sparta’s legacy at home but also propels them back onto the European stage. By winning the league, the club will represent Northern Ireland in the 2026/27 UEFA Futsal Champions League, entering the preliminary round scheduled for August. The opportunity places Sparta among Europe’s elite futsal clubs once again, offering a platform to showcase the quality and ambition that have defined their recent success. Their participation also serves as a valuable milestone for the continued growth and visibility of futsal across Northern Ireland.The Northern Ireland Futsal Federation extends its warmest congratulations to Sparta Belfast Futsal Club on this remarkable achievement. The Federation also sends its best wishes as the team prepares for European competition, confident that Sparta will represent the nation with pride and determination.

NI Futsal Showcase Event Planned The Northern Ireland Futsal Federation are providing an opportunity for new players to experience the fantastic game of Futsal. With recent domestic and international success and a growing sport globally, what better way to come and learn about the game. The event will take place at Shankill Leisure Centre on Sunday 31st May from 12:00 to 14:00. Players must be 16 years of age or older. Meet club coaches with UEFA Futsal Champions League and International experience, who will be available to share their knowledge and help. To register follow the link below. Klubfunder - NorthernIrelandFutsalFederation - NIFF Showcase Event

Opportunities for new players and clubs to get involved in Futsal

Northern Ireland’s historic qualification for the FIFA Futsal World Cup 2028 main round has highlighted the rapid growth of the sport locally. Building on this momentum, the Northern Ireland Futsal Federation (NIFF) is preparing to launch a new Showcase and Draft system to strengthen the player pathway.

Qualification was secured on Friday 10 April after a decisive 3-3 draw with Switzerland and a 7–5 win over England earlier in the week.

The new initiative will connect emerging talent with established clubs through a showcase event followed by a structured draft ahead of the 2026–27 season. It aims to widen access, support club recruitment and create a clearer route for players progressing in the sport.

A proposed Northern Ireland Under19 squad will form a key part of the pathway, reflecting NIFF’s commitment to longterm player development and future international success.

NIFF Chair Jonathan Michael said, “the World Cup main round qualification shows what is possible when players have the right opportunities and support”. He added, “the Showcase and Draft will help clubs strengthen their squads while giving more players a visible route into performance Futsal”.

NIFF is also inviting expressions of interest from new clubs and organisations for the 2026–27 season as part of wider efforts to grow the sport and enhance league structures.

Further details on the Showcase and Draft, including registration and eligibility information, will be released soon. Enquiries from clubs, players and organisations can be directed to
niffcompetitions@hotmail.com.

Join the Northern Ireland Men’s Futsal Superleague

We wanted to highlight a strong opportunity for clubs and teams across Northern Ireland looking to compete at a higher level.

The NI Men’s Futsal Superleague is suited to elite U19 academy squads (aged 16 and older) and ambitious senior football teams who want to challenge themselves in a different, high-intensity format. Futsal places a strong emphasis on technical ability, speed of play, and decision-making — all key attributes for player development.

For academy environments, it offers a proven pathway used across Europe to enhance young players transitioning into the senior game. For senior teams, it provides a competitive platform to test themselves against some of the best futsal sides in the country.

There is also a clear progression route within the league. Top-performing teams have the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland in European competition through the UEFA Futsal Champions League — a unique and exciting prospect for clubs with ambition.

The league continues to grow, bringing together a competitive and inclusive futsal community, while creating real opportunities for players and teams to develop and progress within the national setup.

If your club or team is interested in getting involved, now is an ideal time to enter and be part of it.

Get in touch for more details at niffcompetitions@hotmail.com

Belfast United Futsal Club Marks Historic Chapter with Showcase Match at Newforge Sports Complex

Belfast United Futsal Club, one of Northern Ireland’s most decorated Futsal institutions, has taken an important step toward the next phase of its journey. With a proud domestic legacy and multiple appearances representing Northern Ireland in the UEFA Futsal Champions League, the club is preparing to conclude its involvement in the current domestic structure as plans for a merger progress.

To commemorate this milestone, the current Belfast United squad, joined by several notable former players, took to the court for a special exhibition match against long‑time rivals Sparta Belfast on Sunday 19th April at NewforgeSports Complex. The occasion brought together recent international stars and familiar faces, delivering a thrilling contest that ended 4–3 in Sparta’s favour. Goals for Sparta came from Balbot, Gibson (2), and Luis, while Belfast United found the net through Tamer (2) and Glenholmes.

The event served as a fitting tribute to one of Northern Ireland’s most enduring Futsal rivalries.

A highlight of the day was the senior debut of goalkeeper Ethan Kennedy, who progressed through the Sparta Academy. His introduction was met with pride and enthusiasm from all at the club.

Special recognition was also given to the Belfast United squad, including Sam McKinstry, whose leadership on and off the court has been instrumental to the club’s identity and success. The Futsal community hopes to see Belfast United players return next season in a strengthened Men’s Super League.

Attention now turns to the upcoming Super League Playoff Finals, where Sparta Belfast and Omagh Futsal will compete for a coveted place in the UEFA Futsal Champions League. The two‑leg tie will take place at Newforge Sports Complex on Sunday 3rd May and Sunday 10th May, with both matches kicking off at 13:00.

Enrique Guillen Appointed as Northern Ireland National Futsal Head Coach

The Northern Ireland Futsal Federation is proud to announce the appointment of Enrique Guillen as the new Head Coach of the Northern Ireland National Futsal Team, marking a significant milestone in the continued growth and professionalisation of Futsal across the country. His backroom team will be announced in due course.

This appointment follows a rigorous and highly competitive interview process, which attracted a strong field of high‑calibre candidates from across the Futsal community. Enrique’s vision, experience, and proven track record made him the standout choice to lead Northern Ireland into its next chapter.

Enrique joins the national programme with an exceptional coaching career defined by sustained excellence, with achievements spanning more than a decade across Men’s, Women’s, and Youth Futsal. He currently serves as Genesis Men’s Head Coach and Helvecia Women’s Head Coach in England, roles in which he has consistently demonstrated his ability to develop players, elevate performance, and deliver silverware.

Enrique’s appointment reflects the Federation’s ambition to strengthen the national programmes. His experience across all levels of the game positions him perfectly to lead this new era.

In accepting the role, Enrique expressed his excitement for the challenge ahead. He said, “I am deeply honoured and grateful to accept the position of Head Coach for the Northern Ireland Futsal Team. This is a tremendous opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of the national futsal team. I want to express my sincere thanks to the Northern Ireland Futsal Federation for the trust and belief in my vision."

Enrique added, "I look forward to working closely with the dedicated players, coaches and staff, and help this team achieve its full potential on the International stage.”

The Northern Ireland Futsal Federation looks forward to working closely with Enrique as he brings his expertise, energy, and vision to the national team setup. His appointment marks a bold step forward for the sport, inspiring players, coaches, and communities across the country.