Republic of Ireland 0-0 Belgium: Brighton's Evan Ferguson pays the penalty for missed spot kick as hosts narrowly fail to claim a notable scalp for interim head coach John O'Shea
- Evan Ferguson missed a penalty as the Republic of Ireland and Belgium drew
- Interim head coach John O'Shea narrowly missed out on a notable friendly scalp
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Evan Ferguson missed a penalty as the Republic of Ireland passed up the opportunity to hand interim head coach John O’Shea a notable scalp against Belgium.
The Brighton striker, who reported for international duty without a goal in 20 games for his club, saw his 28th-minute spot-kick saved by Nottingham Forest keeper Matz Sels to ensure the friendly contest at a blustery Aviva Stadium ended 0-0.
Belgium enjoyed the greater share of possession, but Ireland created the better chances with debutant Sammie Szmodics going close on more than one occasion.
O’Shea will remain in charge for Tuesday’s friendly against Switzerland, and will have been pleased with the organisation and endeavour of his players.
After the restart, Belgium boss Domenico Tedesco sent on Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku for Leandro Trossard, but the hosts went close within seconds.
Ferguson towered above the defence to meet Robbie Brady’s inviting cross six yards out, but could not keep his header down.
![Evan Ferguson missed from the penalty spot as Republic of Ireland had a goalless draw](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/23/22/82819573-13231795-image-a-82_1711233468585.jpg)
Evan Ferguson missed from the penalty spot as Republic of Ireland had a goalless draw
![Ireland created good chances versus Belgium, with debutant Sammie Szmodics going close](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/23/22/82819543-13231795-image-a-83_1711233511304.jpg)
Ireland created good chances versus Belgium, with debutant Sammie Szmodics going close
![Interim coach John O'Shea will remain in charge for Tuesday’s friendly against Switzerland](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/03/23/22/82819553-13231795-image-a-84_1711233577314.jpg)
Interim coach John O'Shea will remain in charge for Tuesday’s friendly against Switzerland