The FAI has confirmed friendly matches for the Republic of Ireland against Senegal and Luxembourg in June, in preparation for their World Cup qualifier against Hungary in September. Senegal, featuring players like Sadio Mané, presents a high-caliber opponent, while the Luxembourg match will provide essential away experience.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has announced two friendly matches in June for the Republic of Ireland, scheduled to take place against Senegal at the Aviva Stadium and against Luxembourg away. These matches will serve as preparation for the opening World Cup qualifier against Hungary, set for September 6 in Dublin.
Senegal, the 2021 African Nations champions, are anticipated to include a selection of prominent players from leading European clubs, including former Liverpool winger Sadio Mané. The Senegalese national team reached the last 16 of the 2022 World Cup, where they lost 3-0 to England, and they currently hold the 17th position in the FIFA world rankings, while Ireland is ranked 60th.
Heimir Hallgrímsson, the head coach of Ireland, expressed his satisfaction with securing a match against such high-caliber opposition as Senegal, emphasizing the importance of challenging the players and aiding their development. Hallgrímsson stated that the fixture will excite both players and supporters, noting that this will be the first international encounter between Ireland and Senegal.
The second match will take place on June 10, when the Republic of Ireland will face Luxembourg at Stade de Luxembourg. Hallgrímsson indicated that this game will provide a different kind of challenge for the team in an away setting and will be crucial leading up to the World Cup campaign. He underscored the significance of both matches in the preparation strategy for the qualifiers.
In summary, Ireland’s June friendlies against Senegal and Luxembourg are vital for the team’s preparation ahead of the World Cup qualifiers. The fixtures will not only offer robust competition against high-ranking national teams but also serve to enhance players’ experience and readiness for the challenges ahead. The anticipation surrounding these matches is expected to energize both the players and their supporters as they navigate this critical training window.
Original Source: www.irishtimes.com
