Rep Ire 0 – 1 France
Benjamin Pavard’s stunning strike was a cruel punishment for the Republic of Ireland who forced the World Cup runners-up to struggle to a 1-0 win at the Aviva Stadium.
Pavard’s thunderbolt off the crossbar five minutes after half-time was the first shot on target either side had produced and would prove pivotal in a game of high drama but few chances, and one where Ireland matched their illustrious visitors throughout.
Manager Stephen Kenny had promised his side would play their own game in their Euro 2024 qualifying opener and he stuck to his word, with Ireland both restricting their hosts and also repeatedly looking threatening themselves.
They came closest to finding a way past Mike Maignan in the final moments when Nathan Collins’ header was clawed away at full stretch by the AC Milan goalkeeper, and left the capacity Aviva Stadium crowd wondering what might have been.
But Kenny and his players will take heart from how close they ran a side who barely three months ago were a penalty shoot-out away from winning the World Cup – and will certainly now fancy their chances of maximum points in June’s double-header with Greece and Gibraltar.
More to follow…
What’s next?
Republic of Ireland’s next game is on Friday June 16, when they travel to Greece for a Euro 2024 Qualifier – kick-off 7.45pm. Stephen Kenny’s side then host Gibraltar on Monday June 19 – kick-off 7.45pm.
France’s next outing is on Friday June 16, when they play away to Gibraltar in a Euro 2024 Qualifier – kick-off 7.45pm. Didier Deschamps’ side then host Greece on Monday June 19 – kick-off 7.45pm.
