News Focus
- Chiedozie Ogbene scores second-half equaliser to secure 1-1 draw in Montreal
- Canada took early lead through unfortunate Jake O’Brien own goal
- Four players win first senior caps for Republic of Ireland including Dawson Devoy
- Clash serves as preparation for 2026 World Cup co-hosts Canada
Chiedozie Ogbene scored a vital second-half goal to rescue a 1-1 draw for the Republic of Ireland against Canada in Montreal.
The hosts, who will co-host the 2026 World Cup, took the lead through an own goal by Jake O’Brien. However, Ogbene levelled the scores on the hour mark. He reacted fastest after Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau saved a penalty from Troy Parrott.
Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson made six changes to the side that defeated Qatar last week. He handed first caps to four players. Dawson Devoy, captain of Bohemians, was among the debutants. He became the first League of Ireland player to earn a senior cap since Jack Byrne in 2020.
Kian Leavy of St Patrick’s Athletic and Adam Brennan of Shamrock Rovers came off the bench. Joe Hodge, who plays in Portugal, also made his debut as a substitute. Jaden Umeh and Corrie Ndaba started their first matches for the senior team.
The Irish side started brightly at Saputo Stadium. Devoy had an early chance to score but could not convert from a tight angle. Crepeau saved his effort and the home side cleared the danger.
Canada also threatened early on. Mark Travers had to save from Tajon Buchanan, who caused problems on the right wing.
The home side kept up the pressure and scored in the 23rd minute. Stephen Eustaquio took a corner, and the ball flicked off O’Brien into the net. Jesse Marsch’s team led 1-0 at half-time.
Canada continued to dominate after the break but could not score a second goal.
Against the run of play, Ireland won a penalty on the hour mark. Cyle Larin caught substitute Jamie McGrath with a high boot inside the box. Parrott took the spot-kick, but Crepeau made a brilliant save. Ogbene was quick to pounce on the loose ball and score his fifth international goal.
Larin nearly made up for his error ten minutes later. He forced a fine save from Travers, who stretched to keep the ball out.
Ireland almost won the clash late on. Substitute Mason Melia tested Crepeau with seven minutes left, but the goalkeeper denied him. The friendly finished with honours even.
Canada now turn their attention to their World Cup opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto on Friday. The Republic of Ireland will focus on their Nations League campaign, which starts in September.