Ireland has avoided relegation after defeating Finland in the UEFA Nations League at the Aviva Stadium.
The Boys in Green can go to Wembley on Sunday with confidence, knowing that they will be guaranteed a spot in the second division for another cycle.Ireland quickly established their superiority, taking the lead in the first minute when Matt Doherty’s pass hit Ferguson inside the penalty box. It was just one of several thrilling moments in the initial exchanges that had the audience on their feet, even if it didn’t result in anything.
It was heavily influenced by the movement of Ferguson, Doherty, and Sammie Szmodics. Together, the three of them pressed high while Festy Ebosele moved up from the right side to provide support.
Finland, on the other hand, was a coward.
It all began in the 13th minute when Liam Scales stopped Nikolai Alho’s pass at the near post, causing them to struggle to get into attacking positions. The Irish defense appeared indifferent when Finland’s Kaan Kairinen made a long-range attempt and it flew harmlessly into the corner.
The game then returned to its typical patterns, with a shot from Jason Knight in the 20th minute signaling the change going high and wide. It looked as though the superb play had paid off just ninety seconds later, but Szmodics’ goal was declared offside by the referee.
Everything was going as planned until Robin Lod scored on the spin after ducking into a space inside the penalty box. The ball was a powerful reminder of Finland’s power as it echoed off the right post and silenced the Aviva Stadium.
Ireland launched into a flurry of set pieces after the goalkeeper stopped Szmodics’ attempt for a corner. In the 40th minute, Doherty’s header just missed the back post.
One of these more frequent openings was filled just before halftime as Ferguson headed in a cross from Mikey Johnston.
Ireland continued to probe after the interval, but they didn’t produce many obvious opportunities. Finland took a different course. With the help of three replacements during a five-minute window, they were able to reclaim the lead from Ireland.
When a video assistant referee (VAR) review discovered a handball within the penalty area, they were rewarded with a penalty. Pohjanpalo attempted a penalty kick in the 76th minute, but Kelleher saved it. He also handled a rebound attempt at his near post in the same minute. A long-range attempt by Benjamin Källman was blocked by the goal goalie.
Szmodics had a chance to score as the clock was ticking down, but the midfielder’s shot went straight to Lukas Hradecky.