Robbie Brady sent Ireland fans into ecstasy with an 84th minute header which clinched a 1-0 win over Group E winners Italy and sealed their progression to the last 16 of Euro 2016 yesterday.
Ireland had to win to have a chance of going through and ended up as one of the four best third-placed teams having amassed four points. They now face hosts France in Lyon on Sunday.
The Irish prevailed after being frustrated for much of the game. They had a number of penalty appeals rejected and Wes Hoolahan missed a glorious chance just before sparing his own blushes by sending in the cross which Brady nodded home.
Italy played a second string side as they were already through to the last 16 with a repeat of the 2012 final against Spain due on Monday at the Stade de France.
Late defeat against Belgium puts Sweden out of Euro 2016
A late goal by Premier League target Radja Nainggolan earned Belgium a last-16 berth with a 1-0 win over Sweden making superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic end his international career with a defeat. The Roma midfielder, reportedly wanted by Chelsea, controlled a cross from Eden Hazard outside the area and powered it into the net in the 82nd minute. Belgium now take on Hungary in Toulouse on June 26. Sweden finished third in the group and will look back with regret on a flat performance in their opener against Ireland.
Facing elimination if defeated, both teams pushed forward to attack which produced a pulsating first half hour in balmy Nice.
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