Where the match could be won or lost

Mick McCarthy will resist the temptation to start with Niall Quinn tomorrow, even though it was the giant striker’s introduction in the game with Germany which helped keep the Republic of Ireland in the World Cup.

Mick McCarthy will resist the temptation to start with Niall Quinn tomorrow, even though it was the giant striker’s introduction in the game with Germany which helped keep Ireland in the World Cup.

Germany’s imposing backline, which had managed to stem the pace of Damien Duff and Robbie Keane for the majority of the 1-1 draw in Ibaraki last Wednesday, suddenly found themselves unable to cope with Quinn’s height and physical presence.