Although sidelined for Monaghan's quarter-final loss to Louth because of injury, Beggan gained complete insight into Gavin Devlin's squad and feels their physical stature plus defensive organization could prove decisive.

"From watching them closely last time out, they are extremely organized at the back and that setup will challenge Mayo when trying to involve Kobe McDonald," he noted.

"They will likely assign Donal McKenny to mark Ryan O'Donoghue in a solid matchup, yet their structure and ability to hold firm with 14 players while shutting us out highlights the stamina needed across the full 70 minutes.

"I may be mistaken if it becomes the O'Donoghue and Kobe show, but Louth's backline and their physical edge through midfield could swing the outcome.

"Mayo prefer launching long from kick-outs, yet Louth can dominate that central area and use possession to hurt them, with their defense ultimately carrying them through."

Beggan concurs that under revised rules Gaelic football has become a contest decided by restarts, which should favor the Leinster side if they compel Mayo into short options.

While anticipation grows in Louth, the experience accumulated recently, highlighted by their 2025 Leinster final victory over Meath, should prevent the occasion from overwhelming them as Saturday marks another stage in their development.

After securing notable victories against Armagh and Dublin this championship, Beggan senses strong belief running through the Louth group.

Facing Mayo at this stage instead of Kerry or another Dublin clash has left Louth optimistic in Beggan's view, though the same applies to Andy Moran's team.

"The usual excitement around Mayo tends to build at this point, but it appears subdued this season," Beggan remarks.

"Kobe's influence stands out as he provides a strong aerial presence and can carry the ball forward, easing pressure on Ryan O'Donoghue. Tommy Conroy is also finding form with other key contributors, and the faith shown in younger players has paid off.

"Although Andy would not say it openly, reaching an All-Ireland semi-final marks a solid beginning to his managerial role, yet being drawn against Louth would make a defeat disappointing given the earlier expectations."

Saturday's tie looks evenly balanced, but Kerry head into Sunday's clash as favorites to halt Dublin's strong revival.

The Dubs have already seen off Donegal and Galway, and while Ger Brennan's side enter as underdogs, Beggan views them as dangerous opponents.

Despite several established names departing, many medal winners remain and the Monaghan keeper has noted their increased contributions.

"Overcoming Donegal shows they can claim an All-Ireland, and many overlook their array of talented players," he added.

"Colm Basquel has featured more recently, while Con O'Callaghan, Ross McGarry, Ciaran Kilkenny in a key role and Niall Scully performing at his peak all demonstrate their leaders are delivering.

"Ger Brennan's earlier questioning of the group may have been a smart move as they respond when it matters most."

Brennan's return after a 12-week suspension featured in the win over Cavan following an opening loss to Louth, with Dublin progressing steadily since.

That suspension, together with Jim McGuinness avoiding similar action after an incident versus Kerry, may have created a siege atmosphere, while earlier inconsistent results could have united the squad.

"His presence on the sideline adds further momentum, yet Dublin only narrowly advanced past Wicklow in the Leinster quarter-final," he went on.

"Those tight contests perhaps aided their growth as they realized the need to improve and focus harder, with Ger likely echoing that message from the sidelines.

"A positive result this weekend would not shock me, though I still expect Kerry to prevail in what remains an unpredictable championship."

Kerry have also progressed through the stages after their round-one setback to Donegal, comfortably handling Kildare and Armagh.

The quarter-final against Tyrone proved tighter, which might serve as a useful reminder according to Beggan.

"Some may now sense Kerry can be challenged, but like Dublin they have players returning and three intense matches that will have sharpened Joe O'Connor and Gavin White for the weeks ahead.

"Kerry remain the clear favorites, yet the Tyrone encounter should maintain their concentration."