Over the years Ireland have had their heart broken by the French national side a few times. Obviously 2009 will be etched into the minds of every Irish fan for as long as they can remember. France came from behind to beat the Republic of Ireland, who finished with 10 men, and reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2016. The Republic still did not have their revenge, many thought today was the day
The game started off with a bang, Mbappe made sure of it. Galloping towards the Irish goal mouth with grace and determination. The 21 year old struck the ball just before crossing into the box, leaving the Irish contingent stunned. The ball shall passed an overstretched Darren Randolph, before hitting the back of the net. A beautiful elegant goal from one of the worlds best.
France continued to press and test Ireland;s resolve. It was only a matter of time before they added a second. This time it was Paul Pogba to upset the Boys in Green, charging into free space completely unopposed. The French had drawn an eager defence towards the ball which opened up a an opportunity for the French midfielder Pogba to receive a pass inside the Irish box with no one around him. The French fans celebrated before the ball hit the back of the net.
The Irish did not want to go down without a fight, and had they took their chances, we could of been staring at a very different second half. James McClean had a glorious chance to reduce the deficit to only one, able Hernandez was judged to have fouled him and give away a penalty. Hugo Llrois stood in McCleans way and pulled off a miraculous save to deny Ireland any sense of satisfaction.
Perhaps it was Ireland’s becoming a bit one sighted with their quest for goal that they failed to adequately cater for the possible French counter attack. instead of bringing the game in at half time with just one goal between them, they allowed France to score again, creating an impossible hill for them to Climb. Mbappe was on hand again, this time with a tap in.
The second half France still chased a fourth goal particularly Mbappe, who was after his hat-trick. Ireland got a consolidation goal when Matt Doherty scored on the 64th minute but that was to be ultimately it for The Republic in this years Euro’s.
France now have a clash with Belgium set up for Friday night, two European powerhouses go head to head just like they did in the semi finals of the world cup 2018
