Republic of Ireland vs Brazil. International Match.
Croke Park, DublinAttendance70,000.
Wednesday 6 February 2008 22:17, UK
Republic of Ireland suffered their first loss at Croke Park after a 1-0 defeat to Brazil.
Republic of Ireland suffered their first loss at Croke Park after a 1-0 defeat to Brazil. Robinho's second half goal proved to be enough to give Brazil a deserved victory in Dublin. The Real Madrid star struck on 67 minutes to finally break down the home's side stubborn resistance. Brazil dominated for long periods and the margin of victory could have been greater only for some fine saves from Shay Given. In front of a colourful travelling support, the Brazilians had their best chance in the seventh minute after Robinho was fouled by Lee Carsley but Diego's free-kick was saved low by Given. The visitors predictably dominated possession but lacked some of their usual sparkle, Robinho resorting to a spectacular long-range volley in the 18th minute which soared over Given's bar. John O'Shea did well to deflect another Leonardo Moura cross from the right out for a corner while Fabiano broke through but was ruled narrowly offside again as Brazil continued to press. McGeady produced a moment of magic in the 37th minute when he skipped around two Brazilian defenders and fired a deep cross which Luisao did well to hack out of the six-yard box. At the other end, Josue drove straight at Given from a tight angle at point-blank range but there remained precious little for the samba-drumming visiting support to get excited about. Fabiano sought to lift the spirits with a clever curling shot three minutes before the break but with Given frantically back-pedalling the ball dipped just the wrong side of the post.Republic of Ireland | Team Statistics | Brazil |
0 | Goals | 1 |
0 | 1st Half Goals | 0 |
1 | Shots on Target | 4 |
4 | Shots off Target | 8 |
1 | Blocked Shots | 4 |
4 | Corners | 9 |
13 | Fouls | 19 |
2 | Offsides | 5 |
1 | Yellow Cards | 0 |
0 | Red Cards | 0 |
84.8 | Passing Success | 90.2 |
20 | Tackles | 31 |
55 | Tackles Success | 61.3 |
35.7 | Possession | 64.3 |
42.1 | Territorial Advantage | 57.9 |