Shaqiri free kick hands Swiss victory over Ireland

The Republic of Ireland fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat by Euro 2024-bound Switzerland in a low-key friendly in Dublin. Xherdan Shaqiri struck the winner in the 23rd minute when he curled a free-kick into the bottom corner. Granit Xhaka hit the post from 40 yards as he almost capitalised on a poor clearance by Gavin Bazunu.

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Ferguson sees penalty saved as Ireland draw with Belgium

Evan Ferguson missed an early penalty for the Republic as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Belgium in a friendly at the Aviva Stadium. In John O’Shea’s first game as interim manager, Ferguson saw his tame spot-kick saved by Belgium goalkeeper Matz Sels. The Boys in Green more than impressed albeit against a much changed Belgian side that was without the likes of Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne.

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Ireland held by New Zealand as exit looms for Kenny

The Republic of Ireland failed to end a disappointing year on a high as they were held by New Zealand on a night when James McClean brought down the curtain on his international career. Adam Idah had given Stephen Kenny’s side the lead but Matthew Garbett hit back for the visitors before the hour mark.

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Ogbene to the rescue as Ireland beat Latvia

Evan Ferguson scored his first international goal as the Republic of Ireland beat Latvia 3-2 in a friendly at Aviva Stadium. Callum O’Dowda had given Ireland an early lead however Roberts Uldrikis pulled a goal back with a screamer and Arturs Zjuzins levelled in first-half injury time. Substitute Chiedozie Ogbene struck a winner in the second half.

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Robinson capitalises on Malta error to secure victory for Ireland

Callum Robinson scored the only goal of the game as Ireland finished their fixture list for the season with a dull win in Malta. Stephen Kenny’s men failed to impress against their weaker opponents an ominous sign with European Championship qualifying to come next season.

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