Full TimePosted at 90’+5′ Second Half ends, Greece 2, Republic of Ireland 1.Post updateRed CardPosted at 90’+5′ Matt Doherty (Republic of Ireland) is shown the red card.Post updateBookingPosted at 90’+4′ Giorgos Tzavellas (Greece) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.Post updateBookingPosted at 90’+3′ Kostas Tsimikas (Greece) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.Post updateBookingPosted at 90’+1′ Adam Idah (Republic of Ireland) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul.
Republic of Ireland’s Euro 2020 Hopes Dashed by Defeat to Greece
The Republic of Ireland had their European Championship dreams dashed after suffering a 2-1 defeat to Greece in Athens. The hosts dominated the early stages and opened the scoring through Anastasios Bakasetas’ penalty, before Nathan Collins equalised for the Republic. However, Giorgos Masouras’ strike in the 49th minute sealed the win for Greece. The Republic’s misery was compounded when Matt Doherty was sent off in injury time.
The Republic now find themselves six points behind France and Greece in Group B, and must visit the French and face the Netherlands home and away. The result represents a major setback to Stephen Kenny’s hopes of qualifying for a first tournament as boss.
Early Exchanges
Greece dominated the early exchanges, with Konstantinos Mavropanos heading just wide and Anastasios Bakasetas forcing a save from Gavin Bazunu. The hosts were then awarded a penalty in the 15th minute, which Bakasetas confidently drilled home.
The Republic were soon on the right side of a video check, as Collins had been flagged offside after he converted Evan Ferguson’s flick-on from close range, only for the VAR to overturn the decision and breathe new life into their challenge after 27 minutes.
Masouras Strike Seals Win for Greece
Despite the need for points, the Republic failed to mount a late charge, although Collins’ drive from distance was beaten away by Greece goalkeeper Odisseas Vlachodimos. However, it was Greece who sealed the win when Bakasetas slipped a pass through Mikey Johnston’s legs, allowing Masouras to curl a fine left-footed finish into the corner.
Doherty Red Card Seals Dispiriting Night for Irish
Doherty also forced a save from Vlachodimos from the edge of the box in stoppage time before tempers flared, with the Atletico Madrid defender’s dismissal capping a hugely dispiriting night for the Irish.
Conclusion
The Republic of Ireland now face an uphill battle to qualify for next year’s European Championship, with 18 points still to play for. They are expected to beat Gibraltar at home on Monday to get off the mark, but must now hope for positive results against France and the Netherlands if they are to stand any chance of qualifying.