McAteer Shines, Sarr Strikes Late as Ireland Draw 1-1 with Senegal

The Republic of Ireland were held to 1 - 1 draw by Senegal in Dublin in their first ever meeting. Leicester City’s Kasey McAteer marked his full debut with brilliant goal in the 21 minute after reacting quickest to rebound from fine save by Yehvann Diouf.

Ireland’s performance was full of energy and intent especially in the first half. McAteer, along with Jack Taylor impressed on their 1st starts as Heimir Hallgrimsson tested his squad ahead of September’s World cup qualifiers.

Senegal Hit Back Late

Senegal missing key names like Sadio Mane & Kalidou Koulibaly, named experimental team. They started brightly but struggled to break down Ireland’s organised defence until late in the game.

Brentford’s new goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher was Ireland’s hero for much of the second half. He produced several outstanding saves including tipping Krepin Diatta’s header onto the crossbar & denying Boulaye Dia.

But with nine minutes to go Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr finally broke through. After Kelleher saved from Cherif Ndiaye, Sarr reacted quickly to slot home the equaliser and extend Senegal’s unbeaten run to 21 match.

Key Takeaways

• McAteer scores on 1st international start
• Kelleher impresses with string of key saves
• Sarr nets late leveller to deny Ireland win
• Senegal’s unbeaten run continues now 21 game
• St. Mirren’s Killian Phillips debuts for Ireland

Next up Ireland face Luxembourg on Tuesday while Senegal take on England in what promises to be another big test.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.