Ireland facing must-win clash with Switzerland

Ireland face a must-win showdown with Switzerland at Lansdowne Road this evening.

After last month's 4-2 defeat against Russia in Moscow, victory against the Swiss is seen as crucial to getting Ireland's Euro 2004 qualifying campaign back on track.

Mick McCarthy has no new injury worries ahead of the game, with Shay Given, Matt Holland and Phil Babb all returning to training yesterday.

Robbie Keane, who will win his 40th cap, is expected to lead the attack alongside Damien Duff. The remainder of the team will be announced shortly before kick-off.

Meanwhile, Don Givens' under-21 team lost to Switzerland in their European Championships qualifier at Buckley Park in Kilkenny last night.

Ireland surrendered a two-goal lead to eventually lose 3-2 in front of an estimated 3,500 fans.

Andy Reid opened the scoring for Ireland with less than two minutes on the clock before Liam Miller doubled the lead six minutes later.

However, the home side appeared to lose their nerve as the Swiss countered and Pascal Cerrone pulled one back just before half-time.

Alaine Rochat then equalised for the visitors on 75 minutes before John Venlenphen netted the winner four minutes from time.