Ireland set for Soldier Field return, but not against the team anyone wanted

The last time Ireland played at Soldier Field, it was an occasion that will live long in the memory of anyone who witnessed it.

Few people expected anything other than an Ireland defeat at Soldier Field in November 2016. With good reason too. For 111 years, the world had become accustomed to seeing Ireland fail to better the All-Blacks over 29 matches. Five tries later, the universe as we knew it was turned on its head. Jordi Murphy, CJ Stander, Conor Murray, Simon Zebo and Robbie Henshaw getting over the line, as well as some fine kicking from Johnny Sexton and Joey Carbery saw Ireland score a memorable 40-29 victory over the rugby behemoths. Undoubtedly, New Zealand would love to return and get that win back on the same battlefield. Likewise, Ireland would love nothing more than to go back and do it again. However, it's just not going to happen. In 2018, at least. https://twitter.com/SportsJOEdotie/status/973184589995958273

Pesky plans

Unlike what Hank Scorpio might claim, in rugby terms, nobody ever picks Italy. However, according to a report from the Irish Independent, Ireland are in advanced talks to play Italy in Solider Field in November.