Friday, October 18, 2024

Finland vs Republic of Ireland: Uefa Nations League – BBC Sport

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A sequence of just six wins in their past 31 competitive games has seen the Republic of Ireland slip to 62nd in the world rankings.

Stretching back to the beginning of the Euro 2024 qualifiers in March 2023, their only competitive wins have been home and away to Gibraltar and they have struggled for goals of late with just two in their past six matches, both against Hungary.

“We’re all Irish, we’re all footballers, we all want to win every game with Ireland,” added Collins.

“We’ve always said it’s a dream to play for Ireland. Well, it’s a dream to qualify for tournaments, it’s a dream to push this team to the next level.”

In addition to Coleman, Hallgrimsson is without injured midfielder Will Smallbone for this week’s games while Wolves defender Matt Doherty and Cardiff forward Callum Robinson were among those overlooked for selection.

The Republic of Ireland are hoping to win their first away Nations League match at the ninth attempt. They last faced Finland in this competition in 2020 during the early days of Stephen Kenny’s reign, losing both games 1-0.

Finland, ranked two places below the Irish in 64th, also lost their opening two Nations League B2 games to Greece and England last month.

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