The Republic of Ireland drew 1-1 with Sweden in their Euro 2016 Group E opener.
Sweden head coach Erik Hamren and Republic of Ireland head coach Martin O’Neill before the match
Former Liverpool striker John Aldridge has taken to Twitter to react to the Republic of Ireland’s draw with Sweden.
Ireland kicked off their Euro 2016 campaign on Monday afternoon with a clash against Sweden, knowing an opening win would seriously aid their hopes of making the knockout stages.
They appeared to be on the way to victory too as a sweetly struck volley from Norwich City man Wes Hoolahan handed them a 1-0 lead in the second half.
Republic of Ireland’s Wes Hoolahan celebrates scoring their first goal with Glenn Whelan
It was not meant to be though as Sweden pushed hard for an equaliser and got their reward, with Aston Villa defender Ciaran Clark turning a cross from Zlatan Ibrahimovic into his own net.
It was a disappointing moment for Ireland, who had arguably been the better side in the game.
Republic of Ireland’s Clark scores own goal
And reacting on Twitter, Aldridge was keen to praise the passion and commitment shown by the national side.
The Republic of Ireland will certainly view this game a huge missed opportunity given how they performed in the game. They now face too hard fixtures against Italy and Belgium, the two other sides that make up their group at Euro 2016.
There were plenty of positives to take though and they will be hopeful of picking up the points they need to reach the knockout round this summer.
Republic of Ireland coach Martin O’Neill
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