McIlroy tees up Northern Ireland for 'special moments'

Golf - Dubai Duty Free Irish Open - The K Club, County Kildare, Ireland - 22/5/16 Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy celebrates winning the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open Action Images via Reuters / Paul Childs

LONDON (Reuters) - Golfer Rory McIlroy sent a motivational message to the Northern Ireland football team on the eve of their European Championship opener against Poland, reminding them of the country's proud sporting heritage.

"When it comes to sport, Northern Ireland has always punched above its weight," said the 27-year-old world number three in a video shown to the players on Saturday entitled 'Dare to Dream'.