Switzerland's Shaqiri strikes to down Republic of Ireland in Dublin
The visitors came into the clash with just one win in their previous eight games – albeit, a run which was enough to secure qualification for this summer’s Euros in Germany.
But the presence of only one defeat across the same period indicated the task that lay ahead for managerless Ireland, led by interim boss John O’Shea, would be a difficult one. And the Swiss predictably proved tough to trouble during a tame first 45 minutes at the Aviva Stadium.
Indeed, the opening stages were docile even by international friendly standards, with debutant Vincent Sierro’s timid effort from distance the only shot on target before the midway point of the half.
Ultimately, a moment of quality was needed to break the deadlock, and after Zeki Amdouni was fouled by Dara O’Shea on the edge of the box, Xherdan Shaqiri delivered. On his 121st cap for the Nati, the 32-year-old curled a delightful free-kick into the bottom corner, leaving Irish goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu with no chance.
The shot-stopper was blameless for the opener, but had Granit Xhaka’s low strike from well outside the box crept in – rather than hit the post – his poor clearance would have been solely to blame.
The hosts, meanwhile, offered little until the last few minutes of the half, with headers from Andrew Omobamidele and Michael Johnston threatening to restore parity before sailing wide of the upright.
After the interval, the Boys in Green enjoyed plenty more possession, as Switzerland seemed happy to sit back and absorb the pressure.
However, they were unable to bring star man Evan Ferguson into the game, and besides a spectacular overhead kick attempt from Robbie Brady, the Irish rarely found themselves in a position to worry Yvon Mvogo between the Swiss sticks. At the other end, away chances were effectively non-existent, but Shaqiri’s strike was ultimately enough to secure the win.
Although Switzerland depart as the victors, the manner of their triumph will hardly give Yakin – or the fans and press back home – too much confidence, as they continue their preparations for the continental showpiece in Germany later this year. Ireland, on the other hand, continue to fall short despite boasting some real talent.
As such, whoever is eventually given the hot-seat on a permanent basis clearly has a big job on their hands to change that.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Xherdan Shaqiri (Switzerland)
