The Ireland U21s won their fourth consecutive game in qualifying for the 2023 European U21 Championship on Monday with a 3-1 victory over Montenegro in Tallaght.
The latest win not only gives Jim Crawford's side a great chance of making playoffs, it also means they are in with a shot of qualifying automatically for the finals in Georgia and Romania.
If Sweden fail to beat Italy on Thursday, Ireland will be guaranteed a place in the playoffs by finishing second in Group F. Italy failing to win would also give Ireland a chance to top the group when they play the Italians next Tuesday in Ascoli.
Back in November, Italy defeated Ireland 2-0 in Tallaght. That is a result for which Tyreik Wright - scorer of Ireland's third goal against Montenegro - wants revenge.
"They say pressure makes diamonds," said Wright.
"It's a massive three points for us. I can't wait for the Italy game. Honestly, I can't wait. They done us in our own backyard, so we'll be looking to do them in their backyard."
#IRLU21 3-0 Montenegro - Tyreik Wright's silky finish makes it 3-0 to Ireland.
📱 Updates - https://t.co/DQ7qpQRcX3
📺 Watch - https://t.co/NVrpaW23DL pic.twitter.com/KBms2z3kcR— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) June 6, 2022
The 20-year-old from Cork said he was pleased "to a certain degree" with his performance against Montenegro.
Tyreik Wright: Ireland U21s 'like a family'
"I'm happy with the goal, but I could tidy up on a few things," he said.
"I'm sure they'll come [together] in the next game.
"I said back in the game against Sweden at home that everyone sees us as underdogs, and I always knew what we were capable of.
"It feels like a family. Everyone is so close with each other. Everyone demands high standards, throughout the whole campaign. It will continue throughout the years."
Tyreik Wright isn't one bit daunted by #IRLU21's upcoming away fixture against Italy. pic.twitter.com/xu6lDcBN9a
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) June 6, 2022
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