Republic of Ireland v North Macedonia: Live updates as Irish look for fresh start after World Cup heartache
The Republic of Ireland attempt to put the pain of Prague behind them as they host fellow World Cup play-off losers North Macedonia.The game is a dead rubber for Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side, and the Boys in Green.Ireland lost out in their World Cup play-off semi-final to Czech Republic last Thursday, squandering a 2-0 lead before losing on penalties.North Macedonia were outgunned by Denmark in their semi, leaving both sides to play out what many regard as a pointless friendly in Dublin.Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson says he won’t be throwing in the reserves, he wants to build on the undoubted progress his side has made since they under-performed in their first two group games against Hungary and Armenia. Prior to those games, the Republic had managed just 10 goals in their previous 14 internationals matches. Since then they’ve scored seven in five, created regular chances and taken the notable scalps of Portugal (2-0 in Dublin) and Hungary (3-2 in Budapest).Hallgrimsson insists that his side will start their Nations League campaign against Kosovo in September in much better shape than they started the last campaign.
Comments (0)