Irish striker Evan Ferguson tries to get past a Belgian player in a friendly match. (AFP/Paul Faith)
Brighton and Hove Albion forward Evan Ferguson missed a penalty when the Irish national team held the Belgian national team to a goalless draw in Dublin in a friendly match, Sunday (24/3) early morning WIB.
The draw means Belgium, who are ranked 4th in the FIFA rankings, extended their unbeaten run to 12 matches.
The visitors, who were without Kevin De Bruyne and injured Romelu Lukaku, had the majority of possession but Ireland created the better chances with debutant Sammie Szmodics going close on several occasions.
Also read: De Bruyne leads Belgium to beat Germany
The home team, led by interim coach John O’Shea, had a golden opportunity when Atletico Madrid midfielder Arthur Vermeeren was adjudged to have committed handball in the box and the referee awarded a penalty.
Ferguson, who had not scored a goal for 4 months, was the executor but slipped while kicking and his effort was blocked by Belgian goalkeeper Matz Sels in the 28th minute.
Chiedozie Ogbene went close for Ireland moments later, and the home side went close again when Szmodics’ effort went wide.
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Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco brought on Jeremy Doku to replace Leandro Trossard but Ireland still had more chances.
The goalless draw between Ireland and Belgium lasted until the match was over.
Belgium will face the England national team at Wembley Stadium, Wednesday (27/3) early morning WIB, as part of preparations for the 2024 European Cup.
Tedesco’s children are in the same group as Romania, Slovakia and the winner of the match between Ukraine and Iceland, who will play a playoff match in Germany next week. (AFP/Z-1)