The Republic of Ireland U17s were left celebrating despite losing 7-0 to table-toppers Germany as the result in the other group game went their way to ensure qualification to the next round of the European Championships in Croatia.
Bosnia beat Serbia 1-0 in the other game meaning Colin O’Brien’s side advanced on head-to-head having beaten Bosnia 2-1 earlier in the tournament.
Yeah, between Serbia, B&H and Ireland. 3pts each, 0 goal difference. B&H and Irl scored 2 goals. Irl bt B&H on head to head.
— Owen Cowzer (@OCowzer) May 10, 2017
Despite finishing with the worst goal difference and also losing 1-0 to Serbia, Ireland's advancement was thanks to having scored two goals against Bosnia.
Ireland, Bosnia and Serbia were all left level on three points with one win against each-other but their 2-1 win earlier in the group, as opposed to a 1-0 was enough to see them through.
Well that was remarkable!! Can we say well done to the lads after that. Potential quarter final v England now. Crazy !! #coybig #U17EURO
— Stephen Elliott (@SleevesElliott) May 10, 2017
Have Serbia put in a request to change the rules back to Goal Difference yet? #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/FH6j9TlJcK
— Ronan Murphy (@swearimnotpaul) May 10, 2017
Ireland can now qualify for the FIFA U17 World Cup if they win their quarterfinal against either England or The Netherlands who play each other at 16:00 later today with the English needing just a point to top the group.
