Ireland 0-0 Romania
Paul Doolin’s Ireland side are through to the last four of the UEFA under-19 Championship despite only managing a goalless draw with hosts Romania this evening.
Ireland went into the final round of games in Group B level with Greece on three points, but with Greece falling to a 1-0 defeat to the Czech Republic, a point was enough for Ireland to progress to the semi-finals.
Ireland looked tentative early on against a Romania side that had failed to pick up a single point from their opening two games. John O’Sullivan had one decent chance for the visitors, but overall, Doolin’s side were lucky to be going in level at the break.
Ireland had the ball in the net shortly after the restart through Anthony O’Connor, who struck twice against Greece in the opening game, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Romania continued to pile on the pressure in the second period. Samir Carruthers had to clear the ball off the line and Ireland ‘keeper Aaron McCarey was called upon on a number of occasions as Ireland sought to keep clean sheet.
Despite the Romanian onslaught, Doolin’s side hung on until the finish and will face a much-fancied Spain outfit in the semi-finals.
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