The Republic of Ireland are set to face off against Luxembourg in their second international friendly.
Ireland head to Stade de Luxembourg tonight with cautious optimism. Their recent form is on the up, unbeaten in three and scoring five in that stretch. A draw against Senegal last time out felt harsh, having led for over an hour and limited the opposition to just one big chance.
They’ll be aiming for a repeat of their last meeting with Luxembourg – a 3-0 win back in 2021. That result feels within reach again, given the hosts’ current form. Luc Holtz’s side have lost their last two matches and managed just five goals in their last 11 outings. Defensively, they’ve not fared much better, winning only once in their last five home games and conceding regularly.
Up front, the Red Lions are expected to start Gerson Rodrigues, Brian Madjo and Florian Bohnert. Midfielders Danel Sinani and Leandro Barreiro will look to dictate the tempo, with Tomas de Sousa Moreira providing support behind the front three.
Ireland’s XI is likely to remain familiar. Caoimhin Kelleher starts in goal, with Nathan Collins leading the backline. Will Smallbone and Jason Knight should resume their midfield partnership, while Adam Idah will spearhead the attack flanked by Jack Taylor and Ryan Manning.
The visitors have their defensive frailties – 18 goals conceded in their last 10 – and Luxembourg might fancy their chances of nicking one. But on the balance of form and quality, Ireland are the more polished outfit. Their recent run and a bit of added grit should see them through.
Kick-off is at 7:45 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT+1) and fans can catch the action live on Fibo and Vix.
MWN says: Luxembourg 1-3 Republic of Ireland
