Republic of Ireland handed Italian manager Antonio Conte his first defeat in a competitive match after qualifying for the Round of 16 with a 1-0 win at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy today.
Antonio Conte fielded a makeshift line-up with the likes of Salvatore Sirigu, Angelo Ogbonna, Mattia De Sciglio, Federico Bernardeschi, Thiago Motta and Zaza getting the nod to start because Italy already ensured a top place finish in Group E due to a better head-to-head record over Belgium. Martin O’Neill needed at least a win to ensure a spot in the next round.
The four-time FIFA World Cup winners controlled most of the tempo throughout the 90 minutes but the Irish managed to score the only goal of the game through Robert Brady on the 85th minute after Wes Hoolahan delivered a pin-point cross and the Norwich City player headed his country into the next round with a brilliant header to send the fans into ecstasy.
Here are three players that impressed the most during the Group E match:
Robert Brady
The Norwich City winger was the hero of the night for the Republic of Ireland nation when he scored the winning goal against giants Italy in the dying minutes of the group stage game. His goal ensured his country a spot in the knockout round and his plaudits will be shared amongst his teammates, who put up a brilliant display of performance against the Italians.
Shane Duffy
The central defender was rock solid in the heart of the Irish defence as he prevented the Italians from scoring against Darren Randolph alongside Richard Keogh. He won a staggering amount of 9 aerial duels and also attempted PSG goalkeeper Salvatore Sirigu two times.
Wes Hoolahan
The Norwich City midfielder was brought on as a late substitute and he immediately made a huge impact in the game. He was unfortunate to score the opening goal when he was gifted a one-on-one opportunity but could not get it past Salvatore Sirigu but then popped up with an incredible assist for Robert Brady to score the goal that took his country to the next round.
FULL HIGHLIGHTS:
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