Dublin beats Donegal in extra time to reach quarter-finals

Dublin secured a dramatic All-Ireland Senior Football Championship quarter-final berth with a marathon extra-time victory over Donegal at Croke Park on Sunday, eliminating their opponents in a thrilling Round 3 encounter. The final score was 2-25 to 2-20.

The win, described as the biggest of Ger Brennan's managerial tenure, propels Dublin into Monday's quarter-final draw where they will face Cork, Galway, or Tyrone next weekend. For Donegal, the defeat marks a third loss in four championship games this season and ends their campaign, following Ulster champions Armagh out of the competition on the same weekend.

In a match that required extra time after finishing level at 2-18 apiece, Dublin ultimately prevailed thanks to a dominant performance in the additional periods. Substitute Seán Guiden was instrumental, striking four points in a row at one stage to help Dublin seize control. Colm Basquel, making his first start in over a year, contributed seven points, while captain Con O'Callaghan scored 1-5 before being forced off with an apparent hamstring injury in extra time. Paddy Small also netted a crucial goal.

The game was a rollercoaster from the outset. Donegal, who had suffered...