Two years after the pain of Paris and 10 after all of the controversy of Saipan, Ireland now look set to progress to only their fifth international tournament in an uncharacteristically serene manner.

But that’s not to say there was no emotion in the Le Coq Arena tonight. There was quite a lot of it. And Giovanni Trapattoni, of all people, struggled to keep his in check.

Having come close to tears, however, the victorious Irish manager was still capable of turning an analytical eye – as well as a mangled metaphor – on his team’s unprecedented 4-0 away win.

Trapattoni admitted that the first-half period which saw Ireland’s opening goal and Estonia’s first red card irrevocably altered the pattern of the game.

“We have been helped by the situation. With 11 against 10, we had more opportunities to win.

“After the first goal, I thought the opportunity to qualify was very near.

“Against 10 men, we could use the ball better.”

Trapattoni did insist, however, that the manner in which Ireland went for the jugular when opportunity presented itself was illustrative of a long evolution for his team.

“I am happy because the team showed the work done in training. That is important.

“We showed our personality.

“At the moment I am confident about the team. We were ready. Two years ago, we were not ready. Tonight, we were.

Trapattoni also praised the performance of his wingers, particularly the previously criticised Aiden McGeady.

“He can play better again. The cross for the goal was fahtastic. Also Damien Duff. His job was important for us.”

The Irish manager, however, wouldn’t admit that qualification is now secured.

“In this moment, we think we are near qualified. But we don’t want to jump the gun. Because we have two situations. First, we have to play in Dublin with the same mentality, the same performance. We have to respect the opponent.”

In a cheeky reference to his previously mangled metaphor about cats in sacks, too, the Italian insisted that “the sack is not closed yet”.

In saying that, though, he did announce “I’m not gone yet” in likely reference to his contract situation. While it hardly feels like the time to discuss it, qualification would undoubtedly strengthen his hand.

Trapattoni may not be gone. But he’s surely sent Ireland on their way.