Ireland and Scotland Share Celtic Cup Glory in Thrilling 2025 Finals

Tryst and Dublin International Crowned Celtic Cup Champions in Thrilling 2025 Finals

The Celtic Cup 2024/25 reached its dramatic conclusion over the weekend, with Oriam, Scotland, playing host to a showcase of top-tier handball between Ireland and Scotland’s finest clubs. Following an exhilarating group stage in Ireland back in October, the final rounds on February 22-23 delivered edge-of-the-seat action, with the best men’s and women’s teams battling for national pride and the coveted Celtic Cup title.

Final Four and Semi-Final Showdowns

Four teams in each division made it through to the semi-finals, setting the stage for a weekend of fierce competition.

Women’s Semi-Finals:

• Tryst overcame Astra in a closely fought contest, edging ahead 26-23.

• Dublin City sealed their place in the final with a hard-earned 22-19 victory over Edinburgh.

Men’s Semi-Finals:

• Tryst secured a place in the final after a thrilling 30-28 win over EK82.

• Dublin International put on a commanding display, defeating Kelvinside 35-22.

With both Tryst and Dublin International making it through, the final matchups saw one team from each country contesting for the title—an ideal setup for a classic showdown.

The Finals: Who Took Home the Trophy?

Sunday’s finals did not disappoint. In the women’s division, Tryst clinched the title with a strong performance against Dublin City, securing a 27-21 victory and keeping the trophy in Scotland. Meanwhile, in the men’s division, Dublin International delivered a dominant display, defeating Tryst 33-26 to claim the top spot for Ireland.

With one title each, the competition remains fiercely balanced between the two nations, fueling the fire for next year’s rematch.

Ireland’s Top Performers

A look at how Irish teams placed on the podium:

🥇 Dublin International are the Men’s Champions, delivering a dominant performance to claim the title.
🥈 Dublin City Handball fought fiercely to secure 2nd place in the Women’s division, proving their strength on the international stage.
🥉 Astra Handball Club finished strong, securing 3rd place in the Women’s division with a well-earned podium spot.

Message from Our President: Reflecting on the Celtic Cup 2025

Fintan Lyons, President of Olympic Handball Ireland, shared his thoughts on the competition:

*"What a weekend of handball at Oriam. Ireland’s top club teams, both men’s and women’s, went head-to-head in hard-fought matches against Scotland’s best. It was an honor to be courtside alongside my Scottish counterparts, witnessing the intensity, skill, and passion that unfolded over the two days.

Now in its third year, the Celtic Cup has cemented itself as a key test for players from both nations. The pride and determination on display—both on the court and among the supporters—are a testament to how much this competition means. Local rivalries add to the energy, but ultimately, it’s about pushing each other to new heights.

Of course, everyone keeps track of who lifts the trophy each year. Winning is celebrated, and in true sporting fashion, those who fall short regroup, refocus, and set their sights on next year’s revenge. The stakes are growing, and with national prestige on the line, this tournament is quickly becoming one of the most coveted titles outside of domestic leagues.

Ireland and Scotland share a deep-rooted Celtic heritage, and what better way to honor it than through handball? Or, as we might say over here—go mbuafaidh an fear is fearr (may the best man win)."*

A Growing Tradition

The Celtic Cup has quickly established itself as one of the highlights of the handball calendar, strengthening the bond between Irish and Scottish handball while raising the level of competition year after year. With both nations claiming a title apiece in 2025, the stage is already set for another thrilling battle next year.

For now, though, congratulations to Tryst and Dublin International, your Celtic Cup Champions!