Ireland Falter Against Greece in Nations League Clash

The Republic of Ireland slumped to their third defeat in four games under manager Heimir Hallgrimsson, losing 2-0 to Greece in a frustrating Nations League Group B2 encounter in Athens. Following a dramatic victory over Finland, Ireland were humbled as Greece dominated, with Tasos Bakasetas and Petros Mantalos scoring in the second half to seal a deserved win for the hosts.

Greece captain Bakasetas broke the deadlock shortly after the interval, and Mantalos took advantage of a costly mistake by Irish goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher to secure victory late on. Kelleher had been a standout for Ireland, making crucial saves in the first half to keep the aggressive Greek side at bay.

With this defeat, Ireland now sit in third place, just two points ahead of Finland, and face the threat of a relegation play-off with two games remaining. Greece, on the other hand, strengthened their lead in the group, three points ahead of second-placed England, whom they will face next month.

Greece Dominate Early, Ireland Falter Late Ireland began brightly, with Evan Ferguson narrowly missing an early chance. But Greece quickly took control, applying relentless pressure in an emotional first home match since the passing of defender George Baldock. Kelleher’s heroics in goal kept Ireland level at halftime, but Greece’s Bakasetas struck just three minutes into the second half with a deflected shot off Liam Scales.

Despite introducing substitutes Festy Ebosele and debutant Jack Taylor, Ireland couldn’t find an equalizer. Taylor came closest with two chances, including a header saved by Greece keeper Odisseas Vlachodimos. However, a lapse by Kelleher, who gifted the ball to Mantalos, ended any hopes of a late comeback for the visitors.