John O’Shea and Emanuele Giaccherini are heading for the Euro 2016 knockout stages.
Led by former Sunderland managers Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane, Ireland produced one of their greatest footballing moments on Wednesday defeating Italy 1-0 to seal an unlikely spot in the last 16.
O’Shea, who didn’t feature despite captaining Ireland in both previous group games, watched on as the Boys in Green were frustrated for the majority of the game, but with time ebbing away and hope all but gone Robbie Brady planted a header past Salvatore Sirigu to grab a priceless three points.
Speaking post-match, O’Neill hailed a ‘special’ evening for all associated with the team.
"We deserved to win it. We dominated for periods of the game and played some phenomenal stuff.
"It is a very special evening. To come out of the group that we were in is a great achievement."
Ireland will now face hosts France in Lyon on Sunday afternoon, with victory potentially setting up a quarter-final meeting with England should Roy Hodgson’s side overcome Iceland on Monday evening.
The last time Ireland met Les Tricolores was in 2009 when Thierry Henry infamously handled the ball in the build-up to the deciding goal in a World Cup play-off, and you can be sure it will be fresh in Irish minds when the teams take to the field at the Stade de Lyon.
Giaccherini, meanwhile, played an integral role for the Azzurri scoring their opening goal of the tournament while starting both group games as Antonio Conte’s side sealed top spot with a game to spare.
The reward? A last 16 tie with holders Spain who were denied top spot in their respective group following a late sucker punch against Croatia, who sealed a last-gasp win to edge the Spaniards into second place.
When and where to watch
France v Republic of Ireland – Sunday 26 June, 2pm – ITV
Italy v Spain – Monday 27 June, 5pm – BBC One
