fai.ie
Republic of Ireland face Russia on Tuesday knowing that defeat is not an option if they are to keep alive their strong hopes of reaching Euro 2012. The Irish head into the game just two points behind Group B leaders Russia but victory for the hosts would all but secure automatic qualification for Euro 2012.
Group B is delicately poised with the Republic level on points with Slovakia and should they fail to match their result with Armenia – they could find themselves out of the top two spots in the group. The form book is very much against the Republic as they have never won in Russia and they lost 3-2 to Dick Advocaat’s side back in October.
Darren O’Dea and Stephen Kelly have been drafted into the side for the injured John O’Shea and suspended Sean St Ledger whilst skipper Robbie Keane has been deemed fit to start. Shane Long will sit the match out so Kevin Doyle will again partner Keane in attack whilst Stephen Ward will continue at left-back.
Arsenal forward Andrey Arshavin is set to captain Russia whilst Spurs forward Roman Pavlyuchenko is expected to lead the attack in the key match in Group B.
Tags: Euro 2012 Group B, Euro 2012 preview, Republic of Ireland, Russia
