The FAI has scheduled friendlies for the Republic of Ireland against Senegal and Luxembourg in June, preparing for a World Cup qualifier against Hungary. Senegal, with top-tier players including Sadio Mané, will bring significant competition. Head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson emphasizes the importance of these matches for player development and team preparations.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has confirmed two friendly matches for the Republic of Ireland in June, against Senegal at Aviva Stadium and a confrontation with Luxembourg. These fixtures serve as essential preparation for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Hungary, scheduled for September 6th in Dublin.
Senegal, the 2021 African Nations champions, are poised to field a squad featuring players from prestigious European clubs, including former Liverpool winger Sadio Mané. The Senegalese national team reached the Round of 16 in the 2022 World Cup before succumbing to England with a scoreline of 3-0. Currently, Senegal is placed 17th in the FIFA rankings, while Ireland sits at 60th.
Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson expressed his satisfaction regarding the match against Senegal, stating the importance of facing high-quality opposition for player development and World Cup preparations. He emphasized that this encounter, being the first between Ireland and Senegal, will excite both players and supporters, offering the opportunity to compete against leading talent from various leagues globally.
The friendly against Luxembourg will provide a contrasting type of challenge, with the match taking place away from home. This game is crucial as it will be the final test before the World Cup qualifying campaign commences. Hallgrímsson underscored the equal significance of both fixtures in the team’s preparation efforts, paving the way for an important upcoming window.
In summary, the Republic of Ireland is set to engage in two June friendlies against Senegal and Luxembourg as part of their preparation for the World Cup qualifying match against Hungary. These matches will enhance player development and readiness by providing valuable competition against high-caliber opponents. The outcomes of these fixtures will be pivotal as the team approaches its World Cup campaign.
Original Source: www.irishtimes.com
