Evan Ferguson missed a penalty in the first half, and as a result, Ireland tied Belgium 0-0 in a friendly match in Dublin on Saturday.
Ferguson, the striker, had the opportunity to score for Ireland in the 28th minute at Aviva Stadium after Arthur Vermeeren was judged to have handled the ball in the penalty area. However, Ferguson’s penalty kick was stopped by Belgium goalkeeper Matz Sels.
Ireland’s goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher made an excellent save later in the game to prevent Belgium substitute Thomas Meunier from scoring.
With this draw, Belgium has now gone nine games without losing in all competitions. Next, Belgium will play against England on Tuesday in a friendly match at Wembley Stadium.
John O’Shea led Ireland for the first time as interim head coach, having been appointed last month. He will also be in charge of Tuesday’s game against Switzerland. The Football Association of Ireland announced that a permanent head coach would be hired by “early April.”
