What a start for the Irish.
Not many would’ve given them much hope as they kicked off against the much-fancied French side in Lyon earlier, but after just a couple of minutes, the hosts were behind.
Shane Long was on the end of a cumbersome Paul Pogba challenge with a minute played, leaving the referee with little option but to point to the spot.
Up stepped Robbie Brady – the hero of Ireland’s must win match against Italy last week – to give Ireland the lead.
GOAL! Brady has given #IRL an early lead from the penalty spot against #FRA https://t.co/RgfiQ95KCO
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) June 26, 2016
The French were frustrated for the rest of the half as Ireland’s defence stood strong.
A big 45 minutes lie ahead.
