Sports fans and novices alike were united in their pride for the Ireland soccer team, as they showed solidarity with the LGBT community.
As they faced the United States in an international friendly match, Martin O'Neill's army did their country proud.
Ahead of the game, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) announced that the numbers of the back of the player's shirts would be filled with the colors of the rainbow flag instead of the traditional white.
Brave, bold & brilliant by the FAI. Football has for too long been a breeding ground for homophobia & inequality. Statements like this help break that. Ireland is starting to become a great example to world that tolerance & respect should be the cornerstones of every society. pic.twitter.com/ZhlI0QtYCE
— Niall McGarry (@MrNiallMcGarry) June 2, 2018
The FAI said that the gesture demonstrated the team and the governing body's support for the LGBT movement, and forms part of UEFA's 'Equal Game' initiative.
Graham Burke celebrates his first goal for Ireland 🇮🇪! #GreatestLeagueInTheWorld #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/SXk4JQPoyN
— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) June 2, 2018
"Not just a number, this is a statement. Ireland, supporting LGBT rights," the FAI wrote on their official Twitter account as they shared a preview of the jersey.
The decision was made to mark the beginning of Pride month.
Ireland were victorious over the US team, with a 2-1 result.
It was an emotional night for fans, as they watched John O'Shea, one of Ireland's most decorated players in history, play his last game after 118 appearances for his country.
Yes. Yes. Yes. You’ve made me almost want to watch football. Keep up the good work. 🌈
— Aisling WE ONLY BLOODY DID IT IRELAND Bea (@WeeMissBea) June 2, 2018
The US soccer squad also wore the jersey at the game in Lansdowne Road. A spokesperson from US Soccer confirmed that the team would be wearing the jerseys all month during their friendlies.
Both Ireland and USA teams wore rainbow kits tonight 🏳️🌈💪 pic.twitter.com/1BFTF9PTEM
— B/R Football (@brfootball) June 2, 2018
The US men's and women's national teams debuted the jerseys last year - although BBC reports, the move wasn't popular with everyone.
According to the outlet, US female player Jaelene Hinkle recently said that she turned down the chance to play for US Women's National Team last June because she didn't want to wear a jersey supporting the LGBTQ community.
The devout Christian said it was a conflict with her inherent religious beliefs.
"I was convicted in my spirit that it wasn't my job to wear this jersey," she said.
The pro was not selected to play for the US team since making the controversial decision.