#refereeing-controversy

#refereeing-controversy

In the post-match interview with the BBC, Norther Ireland's manager Michael O'Neill expressed his discontent with the result of the fixture. "We are very proud of the display, but there is a real sense of disappointment in the dressing room, which is understandable," he said. O'Neill lamented the lack of squad depth in NI. Compared to Germany who made 5 changes after the mid-week game against Slovakia, O'Neill's side played the same squad in a span of 3 days.

Drogheda United's early goal created a moment of hope, but Shamrock Rovers' superior quality and crucial officiating decisions ultimately determined the match outcome.