Stephen Ward: Players fired up by chance to take on hosts

Only once has the Republic of Ireland faced the host nation in a major tournament. The opportunity to do so again was a powerful motivating tool for Martin O’Neill’s players as they prepared to face Italy in Lille.

The 1-0 win they bagged now affords the Irish the chance to face France in Lyon on Sunday, 26 years after Toto Schillachi sent Italy through to the semi-final of Italia 90, bringing a halt to our first appearance at a World Cup.

“What a game to be involved in. One of the things we spoke about before the (Italy) game was the incentive that if we did get though we were likely to play France and how attractive that would be, to play the hosts and one of the tournament favourites,” said Stephen Ward.