O’Brien plays full game as Republic of Ireland suffer late Kosovo defeat

Jake O’Brien played the full 90 minutes as the Republic of Ireland began their UEFA Nations League campaign with a 1-0 defeat against Kosovo in Pristina.

The Everton defender started on the right of Ireland’s back three, with James Abankwah outside him at wing-back as Heimir Hallgrimsson opted for a five-man defence.

It was a difficult night for Ireland. Kosovo had much the better of the first half and repeatedly caused problems down O’Brien’s side, with Edon Zhegrova particularly dangerous, cutting in from the right.

Caoimhin Kelleher saved from Vedat Muriqi before the break, while Jayson Molumby also cleared an effort off the line as Ireland reached half-time at 0-0.

Late Muriqi goal beats Ireland

Ireland improved briefly after the restart, and Troy Parrott forced Arijanet Muric into a save, but Kosovo remained the more threatening side.

The winner finally arrived in the 83rd minute. Substitute Ermal Krasniqi’s shot came back off the crossbar and Muriqi reacted quickest to head in from close range.

O’Brien remained on the pitch until the final whistle as Ireland finished the night without a point despite Kelleher making further saves late on.

It wasn’t O’Brien’s easiest international appearance, but the 25-year-old now has another full game behind him before Ireland continue their Nations League campaign against Israel on Sunday.

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