MY ACCOUNT
France continued their red-hot form in the Euro 2024 qualifiers by edging past a resilient Republic of Ireland to a 1-0 win at the Aviva Stadium.
Stephen Kenny’s side did well to keep Les Bleus at bay in the first-half, with Antoine Griezmann coming closest when he headed Benjamin Pavard’s cross just wide.
However, the World Cup finalists finally broke through in the 50th minute when Pavard powered a strike from distance into the top corner.
The Republic of Ireland almost snatched a point when Nathan Collins headed towards the top corner, but new France No1 Mike Maignan provided a stunning save to secure victory.
The result ensured that France maintained their winning start to the Euro 2024 qualifiers after smashing the Netherlands 4-0.
Here are the five key talking points from Dublin.
Pavard rescues frustrated France
Didier Deschamps’ side were exasperated by the number of wasted chances they had early on.
In the first-half alone, they had six shots — with only one on target — that was highlighted when Griezmann flashed his header wide of the top corner in the 38th minute.
However, they showed their quality immediately after the break when Pavard smashed his strike off the crossbar and into the back of the net.
The individual quality was needed to topple what was a defiant defensive display from the Boys in Green.
Defensive strength
The Republic of Ireland showed great grit and determination against the 2018 World Cup winners.
John Egan did well to marshall his side, keeping the wealth of attacking talent away from goal.
It was a complete team display from Kenny’s side, who fought for one another and did well in their individual battles.
While the end result will come as a disappointment for the hosts, it presented a show of promise and potential that they can compete with the big boys.
Maignan magic
Following the retirement of Hugo Lloris France were left wondering who could take up the mantle from their former captain and keeper.
However, following the performance of Maignan they will be feeling confident for the future.
In the 87th minute he prevented a Jules Kounde own goal, and then in the subsequent corner, he denied Collins’ header with a strong glove.
Those saves were crucial to keeping a clean sheet and securing all three points for Les Bleus.
Even more experience for Evan
Following his starting debut against Latvia, Ferguson was given the go-ahead from Kenny to start once again and put on a lively display.
The 18-year-old made numerous attacking runs that kept the France backline on their toes and held the ball up well, bringing his team-mates into the game.
However, after Mbappe’s warning ahead of the match, Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konate managed to keep the teenager at bay.
Ferguson was hauled off in the second half — but nevertheless this match was an important learning experience for the Brighton striker.
Mbappe misses the mark
New France captain Mbappe was unable to build upon his dominant goalscoring form for Les Bleus.
The PSG forward scored two and assisted one during his sides’ 4-0 drubbing of the Netherlands — but was unable to have his usual impact against the hosts.
Seamus Coleman did well throughout the night to frustrate the forward and stop him from getting into dangerous positions or embarking on his mazy runs.
In all it was a match to forget for the 24-year-old superstar.
