Benjamin Pavard scored the only goal of the game as an underwhelming France beat the Republic of Ireland at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium.
Stephen Kenny’s side largely held the World Cup finalists at bay in their Euro 2024 qualifier but were punished for their one defensive mistake only minutes after the interval.
After a first-half to have yielded not a single shot from either side, Ireland midfielder Josh Cullen played a loose ball deep in his own half in the 49th minute.
Bayern Munich defender Pavard pounced on the turnover in possession and struck a powerful drive over Southampton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu which rattled in after hitting the crossbar.
Still, the home side rallied to offer reasons for optimism.
AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan was forced into a stunning late double save to maintain France’s advantage.
The first saw him spare Jules Kounde’s blushes by getting his fingertips to the defender’s headed clearance from a corner before the Milan star pulled off an even better stop to deny Nathan Collins from close range.
Ireland will next take on Greece and Gibraltar this summer as they look to register their first points in qualifying Group B.
On the basis of this performance, Kenny’s side will feel confident of making an impact in what looks like an open fight for second place with the Netherlands.
