JACK CHARLTON’S IRELAND side headed to America for the World Cup two decades ago feeling pretty confident.
The Boys in Green would line out in the Giants Stadium before the Italy showdown, having won three on the bounce, with Holland and Bolivia beaten.
The other game — arguably the most notable scalp in that run — occurred 20 years ago today. Having qualified for their third major tournament under Charlton, Ireland travelled to Hannover for a warm-up game against the reigning world champions.
Goals from Tony Cascarino and a 19-year-old Gary Kelly either side of half time sealed victory in the Niedersachsenstadion.
Here’s how it happened, with bonus vintage Gilesey.
Germany: Illgner, Matthäus, Kohler (Häßler 46), Strunz, Basler, Buchwald (Berthold 36), Sammer, Wagner, A Möller (Effenberg 46), Riedle (Völler 76), Klinsmann.
Ireland: A Kelly, Irwin (G Kelly 46), McGrath, Babb, Phelan, McAteer (Houghton 86), Sheridan (Whelan 46), Townsend, Keane, Staunton, Cascarino (Coyne 70).
What are your memories of the game?
In years to come I can see Brendan being the republics most successful manager….kind of a fergie vibe to his persona