Limerick will face Galway in the 2026 All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Final after producing a remarkable late comeback to defeat fierce rivals Clare 1-21 to 1-19 in a gripping semi-final at Croke Park.

Clare looked to be in complete control for long periods and deservedly held a five-point advantage at half-time, leading 0-16 to 0-11 after an impressive opening 35 minutes. Tony Kelly, Mark Rodgers and Peter Duggan were all influential as the Banner kept the scoreboard ticking over, while Limerick struggled with their shooting accuracy, hitting seven first-half wides.

John Kiely’s side responded strongly after the restart, gradually chipping away at the deficit through the accuracy of Aidan O’Connor and Diarmaid Byrnes, but Clare continued to answer every challenge and looked to have one foot in the All-Ireland final.

The game’s defining moment came midway through the second half when Clare were awarded a penalty after Peter Duggan was brought down bearing down on goal. Tony Kelly made no mistake from the spot, firing to the corner of the net to extend the Banner’s lead to six points.

Limerick refused to give in and slowly reeled Clare back in. Byrnes and O’Connor converted crucial frees before O’Connor’s accuracy from placed balls left just a point between the sides entering the closing stages.

With the clock deep into stoppage time and Clare appearing set to hold on, Limerick produced one final attack. They broke out from deep inside their own half before Aidan O’Connor finished emphatically to the net, turning the game on its head and sending the Treaty supporters into celebration.

Clare had one last opportunity to rescue the contest, but they were unable to create the goal chance they desperately needed as Limerick held firm to secure a dramatic two-point victory.

The result sends Limerick into another All-Ireland final, where they will meet Galway after the Tribesmen’s comprehensive victory over Cork in Saturday’s first semi-final. It also ends Clare’s championship campaign after they came agonisingly close to reaching the decider before Limerick’s stunning late revival.

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