Chiedozie Ogbene scored a late equalizer to secure a 1-1 draw for the Republic of Ireland against Canada in Montreal.
Chiedozie Ogbene found the net late in the second half to secure a 1-1 draw for the Republic of Ireland against Canada in Montreal. The match was an international friendly, and Ogbene reacted quickest after Troy Parrott's penalty was saved, leveling the score. Canada had taken the lead through an own goal by Jake O'Brien, but Ireland clawed back to earn a share of the points. The result kept both teams level at the end of the match.
Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson made six changes to the starting lineup that defeated Qatar the previous week. Four players earned their first senior caps, including Bohemians captain Dawson Devoy, who became the first League of Ireland player to receive a senior cap since Jack Byrne in 2020. St Patrick's Athletic midfielder Kian Leavy and Shamrock Rovers winger Adam Brennan came off the bench, alongside Portugal-based Joe Hodge. Jaden Umeh and Corrie Ndaba made their first senior starts for the national team.
The Republic of Ireland began brightly at Saputo Stadium, with Dawson Devoy having an early chance after being played through, but he couldn't convert from an angle with Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau making the save. Canada also started strongly, with Mark Travers forced into a save against Tajon Buchanan on the right wing. The hosts continued to press, and their pressure paid off in the 23rd minute when Stephen Eustaquio's corner was diverted into the net off Jake O'Brien, giving Jesse Marsch's side the lead.
Canada maintained their dominance after the early goal, with Jake O'Brien making a crucial block to deny Liam Millar. The hosts held a one-goal advantage at halftime and continued their attacking pressure in the second half. Despite several chances, they couldn't extend their lead, leaving the Irish with an opportunity to fight back.
Against the run of play on the hour mark, the Republic of Ireland were awarded a penalty after Cyle Larin was penalised for a high boot on substitute Jamie McGrath inside the penalty area. Troy Parrott took the spot kick, but Maxime Crepeau made a brilliant save. Chiedozie Ogbene, however, reacted first to slot home the rebound, scoring his fifth international goal and leveling the match. Larin nearly made amends for Canada ten minutes later, but Mark Travers made a crucial intervention to keep the score tied.
With seven minutes remaining, substitute Mason Melia had a chance to win it for Canada, but Crepeau denied him once again. The match concluded in a 1-1 draw, with both teams sharing the points. Canada now prepares for their World Cup opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto on Friday, while the Republic of Ireland shifts focus to the Nations League in September.