The Ireland U21s beat the Bahrain U23s 1-0 at the Toulon Tournament on Sunday afternoon.
The victory means Ireland progress to the semi-finals of the tournament for the first time. They will play the Brazilian U22s on Wednesday.
A deflected Connor Ronan free kick in the 33rd minute gave Ireland the win over Bahrain.
🇮🇪 HUGE goal for @FAIreland here!@Wolves Connor Ronan with a deflected free kick puts Ireland 1 up🙌#IRLU21 pic.twitter.com/N5h3sE3uCN
— FreeSports 📺 (@FreeSports_TV) June 9, 2019
Shortly after Ronan's goal, Ireland were awarded a penalty when Josh Barrett was fouled.
Jayson Molumby stepped up to take the kick but saw it saved.
"This move deserved a goal"
👌 Superb link up play from @FAIreland denied only by an excellent stop from the Bahrain keeper#IREU21 pic.twitter.com/rqBx726gZG— FreeSports 📺 (@FreeSports_TV) June 9, 2019
In the second half, Caoimhim Kelleher - just over a week on from picking up a Champions League winner's medal with Liverpool - made this crucial save as Ireland held out for the win.
🧤 Caoimhin Kelleher with a big save here for @FAIreland to keep his side in front#IREU21 pic.twitter.com/GPRA1EadB4
— FreeSports 📺 (@FreeSports_TV) June 9, 2019
Ireland beat China's U22 side 4-1 in their opening game and followed up that victory with a 0-0 draw against Mexico's U22s.
This year is the first time Ireland have participated in the prestigious tournament in 17 years.
Photo by Alexandre Dimou/Sportsfile
