Xherdan Shaqiri of Switzerland is tackled by Ireland’s Dara O’Shea and Robbie Brady, right, of Republic of Ireland during the international friendly at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
Here is how the Boys in Green fared in their 1-0 friendly defeat to Switzerland as John O’Shea’s spell as interim head coach came to an end in front of 35,742 at Lansdowne Road.
Gavin Bazunu – 5
Should have done better for Xherdan Shaqiri’s free-kick and got very lucky when the post denied Granit Xhaka after the goalkeeper’s poor, uncharacteristic clearance.
Andrew Omobamidele – 6
An early key clearance denied the Swiss a chance before Yvon Mvogo saved his header. Solid shift at the back and made way for Matt Doherty.
Nathan Collins – 7
A clever Cruyff turn set the tone for another imposing display. Was comfortable playing out and kept Shaqiri at bay from the heart of the back three.
Dara O’Shea – 7
His mistimed tackle led to the Swiss opener on 23 minutes but performed well otherwise. Showcased his pace when required to ease pressure at the back.
Séamus Coleman – 7
On his 70th cap, the skipper played well and kept Dan Ndoye quiet from right wing-back. Switched to centre-half afterwards and earned Player of the Match.
Jason Knight – 6
Several excellent through balls gave Ireland impetus going forward and his strong tackles also frustrated the visitors. A positive contribution in midfield. Replaced by Will Smallbone.
Josh Cullen – 6
Struggled to prevent the Swiss storming through the Irish midfield early on but improved as the clash progressed. Replaced by debutant Finn Azaz.
Robbie Brady – 6
Set-piece deliveries were excellent again going forward and performed his defensive duties well too. A solid night before being substituted for Callum O’Dowda.
Sammie Szmodics – 5
Didn’t receive the service some fine runs deserved. Switched to left wing after the break but failed to make an impact before Mark Sykes came on.
Evan Ferguson – 6
Led the line and worked tirelessly but chances were few and far between for the Brighton striker, whose wait for a goal goes on.
Mikey Johnston – 6
Energetic at left wing but lacked end product in the final third. Should’ve done better when he sent a first-half header wide. Made way for Adam Idah.
Manager – 6
Made three changes but Ireland were outclassed in the first-half. A better second period followed and the triple change did provide lift but the leveller never came.
Substitutions – 7
Smallbone, Doherty and Idah (56 minutes) added real energy. The latter impressed, sending two efforts just wide. O’Dowda and Sykes (79) made late cameos while Azaz (87) earned his first cap.