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Armagh vs. Donegal Rivalry Reignites as Derry Aims for Redemption in Ulster Football League

BBC Sport •
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Armagh and Donegal's historic rivalry resumes Sunday as both teams seek to solidify their league positions. The battle, rooted in their 2024 All-Ireland final clash, sees Donegal (3-3) favored against Armagh (1-2), who've struggled after back-to-back losses. Kieran McGeeney and Jim McGuinness' sideline feud adds intensity, with this being their fifth meeting in three seasons. A win could propel Donegal toward Ulster semi-finals, while Armagh fights to avoid relegation turmoil.

Derry's revival under Mickey Harte faces its toughest test yet as the Oak Leafers host Offaly at Celtic Park. After a first win in 2025 against Tyrone, Derry (1-2) aims to end a league winless streak dating to 2024. Captain Conor Glass' suspension and the absence of key players add pressure, but Harte's return injects optimism. Victory would boost promotion hopes before crucial fixtures against Cork and Cavan.

Tyrone's promotion push faces setback as Darragh Canavan, their star performer (9 points vs. Cavan), exits early for an Australia trip. Malachy O'Rourke's side (1-4) must win all four remaining games to climb Division Two, starting with Louth on Sunday. Despite last year's semi-final appearance, inconsistent form and key absences threaten their ascent, complicating Canavan's legacy with the Red Hands.

Down edges closer to promotion after securing three straight wins in Division Three. Conor Laverty's Mournemen (3-3) target a fourth victory against Wexford to strengthen their case for automatic advancement. Their high-scoring campaign (4-52 points in three games) positions them as favorites, though Westmeath's own promotion bid adds stakes. Meanwhile, Fermanagh and Antrim languish at season bottoms, facing uphill battles against Westmeath and Leitrim respectively.