IRELAND U19S MAY have gotten the latest phase of their European Championship qualifiers off to the perfect start against Italy on Thursday, but they suffered a heavy defeat to Sweden earlier today.
The game finished 3-0, but Ireland were unlucky not to grab at least one goal back in Beveran.
Sweden’s Svante Ingelsson broke the deadlock after 25 minutes of play, while Thomas Isherwood doubled their efforts just seven minutes after the restart.
2-0 down, Tom Mohan’s side battled hard to keep in touch, with Trevor Clarke and Corey O’Keeffe working hard to create chances.
The defence was under pressure however, with a third goal looking imminent for the Swedes. Alexander Iask then delivered the killer blow in the 73rd minute.
Ireland’s chances of clear qualification have been hindered, but most definitely not gone. Hopes are still well and truly alive.
They face table-toppers Belgium in a crunch-tie on Tuesday, with only the top side in the group qualifying for the finals in Georgia in July.
Belgium sit top on four points, having beaten Sweden in the opener and drawing with Italy earlier today. Following today’s result, Sweden move into second place and Ireland sit third, both with three points.
If Ireland qualify, it would be their first U19 Euros since 2011.
IRELAND: Kelleher, O’Keeffe, Masterson, Rice, Wilson, Elbouzedi, Molumby, Levingston, Clarke, Mandroiu, Hale.
Subs: Travers, Leahy, Carroll, Kane, McKenna, Mallon, O’Connor
