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26 Oct 2025

Can Mayo be relegated? We analyse the potential outcomes of the Donegal game

Kevin McStay’s side could potentially face either the drop to Division Two or a trip to Croke Park depending on how the final day of League action plays out

Can Mayo be relegated? We analyse the potential outcomes of the Donegal game

Aidan O'Shea of Mayo will be hoping his side will prevail over Donegal in the final National League game. Pic: Sportsfile.

The last day of action in the National League could potentially end in vastly different fortunes for Mayo.

The Green and Red started 2025 slowly, but have gathered momentum as the league has progressed.

READ MORE: When and where to watch the Mayo footballers crunch League clash against Donegal

Now, 60 minutes could potentially see Kevin McStay’s side relegated, or punching their ticket to a league final - presumably against Galway.

We examine what results are needed around the grounds for both outcomes.

What happens if Mayo win?

Should Mayo record a win over Donegal, then they will need a favour from both Tyrone and near-neighbours Galway, who face Dublin and Kerry respectively if they are to contest the National League final.

Tyrone are not safe from relegation themselves and will be gunning for a crucial victory on Sunday when Dublin make the trip to Omagh.

Galway, meanwhile, are all but assured of a league final berth and could make a significant number of rotations as Kerry come to Salthill.

That being said, they could do Mayo a favour with a win. That result, coupled with Tyrone coming away with the points, would see Mayo into the league decider next weekend.

What happens if Mayo draw?

If Mayo draw, then they move to eight points, level with Donegal, Galway and Dublin at present. However, due to all three sides having a better scoring difference, a draw rules out a League Final place.

That being said, Sunday’s game finishing all square would see Mayo avoid the perils of relegation, moving them three clear of Tyrone and Armagh at present.

READ MORE: Three Mayo U-20 players who caught our eye against Roscommon

What happens if Mayo lose?

Should Donegal triumph on Sunday, then Mayo will again be keeping a watchful eye on the scores elsewhere.

Should Kerry beat Galway and Tyrone beat Dublin, they will be safe. At that stage, it’s all on Armagh’s game with already relegated Derry.

The All-Ireland champions are likely to win that one, and should they do so by more than six points, alongside wins for Tyrone and Kerry, then Mayo would face the drop.


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