Republic of Ireland’s defender Ciaran Clark scored an own goal to help Sweden to draw 1-1 in the Euro 2016 Group E at Stade de France on Monday.
Republic of Ireland was regarded as the weakest team in the group of death. The other two teams were Belgium and Italy. But the fellows of Republic of Ireland played more aggressive than Swedes.
Republic of Ireland’s midfielder Jeff Hendrick shot from distance in the 32nd but unfortunately hit the bar, however, his teammate Wes Hoolahan smacked home a half-volley from a dozen yards in the 48th minute.
“It was a fantastic set up by Seamus Coleman, I caught it on the half volley and was delighted,” Hoolahan said.
“To get a goal for Ireland in the Euros is a great achievement. The boys were unlucky but we’ll take the point.
“We created a lot of chances. In the first half we were excellent and at the start of the second half as well. The boys should be proud of themselves,” Hoolahan said.
In the 71th minute, Sweden captain Zlatan Ibrahimovic clipped a ball across the goalmouth that Republic of Ireland’s defender Ciaran Clark stooped to head into his own net.