Gallas rescues France but dashes Irish hopes

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The presence of Giovanni Trapattoni continued to grow even at the Stadio de France and things were turning to be dramatic during the first half as Ireland scored in about the 32nd minute to show that they were in the groove and it reflected the score line predicted by Trapattoni the earlier night. Ireland’s veteran captain, Robbie Keane scored and forced the match into extra time.

The French team, coach and the fans were all but hopeful and were looking for their glory of fate but it did not come that early. Meanwhile, Damien Duff and Liam Lawrence continued to trouble the French defence and Duff’s ball in actually created the goal for Robbie Keane only to stun the French crowd. The match continued to flow in with its moments and Robbie Keane could have made it 2-0 for the visitors. Damien Duff later had a chance saved by French keeper, Lloris. The French team showed a better display in the second half and Henry exploited the Irish flanks on the right.

Manchester United defender, John O’Shea also had a chance of scoring when he was left unmarked during a free kick won by Robbie Keane. France had to wait until the first 15 minutes of the extra time when William Gallas drove it home for the French to make it 1-1. It was the moment of glory as France could not breach the Irish defence prominently all night but that one moment stole everything from Ireland. France had problems throughout in their defensive ranks with Abidal and Toulalan out and Abidal’s replacement was out injured and was replaced by Sebastian Squillaci. The French coach, Raymond Domenech was delighted at the result as he was under a lot of criticism of late for is tactical blunders.