Full guide to Irish League's European play-offs as dates and opponents revealed following Irish Cup final
After Coleraine defeated Dungannon Swifts in Saturday’s Irish Cup final, the European play-off picture has now become clear as four teams battle it out for a continental spot.
While the Bannsiders celebrated glory at Windsor Park, there was also cause for Glentoran joy with the result ensuring Declan Devine’s side will enter Conference League qualifying at the first round stage this summer.
The Glens were pipped to a second-placed Premiership finish – which would have guaranteed an automatic European position – by an in-form Coleraine on the final weekend, but will now end a three-year continental absence.
After falling just short of defending their Irish Cup crown, Dungannon will have to pick themselves up immediately for an opening play-off clash at home to Carrick Rangers on Wednesday (May 6).
Carrick ended their Premiership campaign in fine form – Stephen Baxter’s men lost just four of 18 league matches in 2026 to equal their highest finish and set a new points record.
The winner of Dungannon vs Carrick will then face a play-off semi-final trip to Cliftonville on Saturday (May 9) before a showdown with Linfield at Windsor Park awaits on Tuesday, May 12 for the Irish League’s final European spot.
Linfield guaranteed progression to the play-off decider by winning the BetMcLean Cup in March, beating Glentoran in extra-time.
Reaching the Conference League’s first qualifying round is worth €150,000 in prize money with a further €175,000 per qualifying round played.
Coleraine are in line to receive €350,000 for booking a spot in the second qualifying round with €175,000 per qualifying round played also up for grabs.
Reaching the League Phase – as Larne did in 2024 – is worth €3.17m with extra money available for positive results.
European play-off schedule
Round One: Dungannon Swifts vs Carrick Rangers (Stangmore Park, May 6, 7:45pm)
Semi-Final: Cliftonville vs Dungannon/Carrick (Solitude, May 9, 6pm)
Final: Linfield vs Cliftonville/Dungannon/Carrick (Windsor Park, May 12, 7:45pm)