With a late kick-off for the Sunday match against Greece in Piraeus, there was ample opportunity for detailed discussions amongst local individuals, including a diligent television commentator curious about the correct pronunciation of lesser-known Irish players like Sammie “Smzodics”. “So, does the ‘z’ in Smzodics remain silent? And where’s he playing?” queried the commentator about his position, which is unusually on the left.
Examination of the tactical arrangement used by Heimir Hallgrímsson’s progressive Ireland team also raised some eyebrows. “Really, Dara O’Shea is reserved for right back?” This happens only when Ireland isn’t in ball possession. However, Ireland is demonstrating progress, even though Hallgrímsson continues to address ‘psychological aspects.’
When Ireland does get the ball, three centre halves – O’Shea, Nathan Collins, and Liam Scales – inspire Robbie Brady and Chiedozie Ogbene to widen the playfield, assuming Ireland maintains control – this was tragically lacking in the opening half.
Regarding having two players at the front, the partnership of Troy Parrott and Evan Ferguson was a fresh approach that unfortunately did not succeed, even though Parrott’s proximity to the target improved when Jack Taylor replaced Ferguson.
“Heimir understands our powerful features,” stated O’Shea post-match, “and he has simplified our strategy. It specifically involves getting the ball into the opposition’s half to create an advantage. We have astonishing offensive players who perform at grand standards, and we aim to empower them by providing them with the ball to demonstrate their talent.
The defender continued: “We’re a persistent nation,” before highlighting the coach’s commitment to maintaining that spirit and implementing a fresh approach, which differs significantly from previous years. He acknowledges that patience is necessary, but so are results – the match in Helsinki being a positive example.
Ireland’s Nations League experience in October was marked by a triumphant victory, thanks largely to Brady’s stellar half-volley. This success was contrasted by a defeat that unearthed the recurring problem of conceding long-range goals in the second half, an issue that has plagued them since 2021 and against a variety of opponents, including Serbia, Luxembourg, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, France, Portugal, Latvia, and on two separate instances, Greece.
Hallgrímsson voiced frustration over Ireland’s defensive lapses, comparing it to “gifting too many opportunities.” He further expressed a desire for his team to start matches with the same vigor they demonstrate when lagging behind in games, as evidenced in Helsinki and Piraeus, attributing this to a psychological element he has often highlighted – confidence.
Ireland prepares for Finland’s visit to Dublin on the 14th of November with a determination to seek sweet revenge for the 2-1 loss incurred on Finnish soil the previous Thursday. Both nations are set on evading a straight drop from League B, with the group’s third place facing a relegation play-off in March of next year against a second-place finisher from League C, which could possibly be Northern Ireland or recent foes Armenia.
If Ireland was to be embroiled in the play-offs, they may find themselves bunched with three other teams vying for a World Cup qualifier position in Group 3. Come March 2026, a total of 16 European groups will have qualified, including a dozen victors and four teams who triumphed in the play-offs.
After an intensive fortnight of strategic talks, training sessions, and two matches, Hallgrímsson has identified several resilient fighters within his group. Collins and Kelleher, despite inviting goals through avoidable mistakes, made many commendable save attempts which managed to limit the score deferential, resulting in more pros than cons for Ireland in the recent international matches.
While Brady battled through the twilight of his injury-riddled career, Festy Ebosele’s arrival was noticeable. Josh Cullen’s return also benefited the team as he contributed in both Finland and Greece, paralleled by Scales’ impressive transfer of his Celtic play onto the Irish field. Key in upcoming games is Ferguson, who after gaining much-needed match play, prepares for the Finnish side in Dublin. Ireland will end their campaign at Wembley three days afterwards, where, under Acting Manager Lee Carsley, Declan Rice and Jack Grealish are expected to keep their places in the team.
After England’s notable 3-1 victory over Finland, Carsley effectively stepped out of the race for permanent managerial tenure, believing the role should go to a seasoned, globe-trotting coach with a track record of wins. He asserted that he’s still developing and learning himself. Following marginal performance against Greece, Carsley expressed his desire to return to the position of coach for England’s Under-21 squad.
Hallgrímsson made a strong impact even before this month’s get-together, grabbing everyone’s attention with some daring choices. He dropped Doherty, Browne, O’Brien and Robinson, while presenting Ebosele and Taylor with the opportunity to showcase their talents.
The current Ireland squad has dramatically changed since the 2016 Euros, with only Brady remaining. Brady, with 68 international appearances, is significantly ahead of his nearest teammate, Cullen, who has only played 30 games.
Hallgrímsson has expressed his admiration for the ex-Manchester United academy player, acknowledging that despite being 32 and being old enough to father some of the players, he still manages to blend in perfectly. Referred to as a steadfast performer, he is valued within the camp. Hallgrímsson hopes this commendable performance continues for his club and national team, enforcing safety and consistency in his play.