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Robbie Brady says playing for the Republic of Ireland has always been the highlight of his career after scoring a dramatic late winner in the team’s 2-1 comeback victory over Finland on Thursday. The 32-year-old Preston defender was named player of the match after setting up Liam Scales’ equalizer and netting the decisive 88th-minute goal to secure Ireland’s first-ever away win in the Nations League.
Brady, whose national team career has been interrupted by injuries, expressed his joy at being back in the fold. “It means the world for me,” he said. “Like I’ve always said, the highlight of my career has always been playing for my country, and you realize when you’re not in the fold how much you miss it.”
The win marked Heimir Hallgrimsson’s first competitive victory as Ireland’s manager, helping boost their Nations League B2 campaign after previous losses to England and Greece in September. Brady emphasized the hard work he’s put in to return to form, stating, “I put in a lot of hard work, and I feel I deserve to be in around it at the minute, and I’m glad I got to show it tonight.”
However, the match wasn’t without its challenges. Nathan Collins‘ defensive error gifted Joel Pohjanpalo Finland’s opening goal, but Brady’s efforts ensured Ireland bounced back.
Reflecting on his career, Brady noted that injuries had disrupted his consistency at the international level. “All you can do is get your head down and work hard,” he said. “I’ve got game time under my belt at club level, I feel fit. I’ve had a fair share of injuries over the years, that hasn’t helped.”
Ireland will face Greece in Athens on Tuesday, a crucial match following Greece’s 2-1 victory over England.
