It's now clear that to beat the French, or draw with them for that matter, everything needs to go to plan. The crowd did their part, the players held their own, but the ounce of luck required was nowhere to be found.

Planning for the exquisite goal Thierry Henry produced is also something no one can shoulder the blame for.

The Robbie Keane penalty appeal sticks in the craw just a little though.

"On another night with a difference referee we could have had a penalty," said Richard Dunne. "We just didn't get a rub of the green."

Without such an essential component (the rub of the green) a world-class side like the French are almost impossible to beat. The manner of the goal eases the pain though, just a little.

"At the time there was nothing really happening in the game but that is the quality they have in their side," noted Dunne.

"It was a real battle. The occasion was the real big thing. It was more of a play-off to see who can get through as winners of the group. In the end, either side could have won it really."

So it's back to the more travelled path for Irish football. Nothing out of the ordinary here in trying to gain access to a major tournament - sure, Ireland don't know any other way.

"It's the usual thing for us I guess," continued Dunne. "There wasn't much between either side on the night but I'm sure Switzerland will be relishing the chance to go forward. It will probably come down to our last match with them."

Captain Kenny Cunningham agreed Ireland held their own, but he and Dunne witness what Henry can do to workmanlike teams at least once a season in the Premiership.

"We had high hopes going into the game but one clinical strike made the difference. It was a very tight game, very tactical. We all knew it would be, but it was a world-class goal from a world-class striker.

"We now have to pick ourselves up but it's out of our hands now."

Considering the way he overshadowed every other performance, including those of Zinedine Zidane and Roy Keane - who was dubiously named man of the match - it's fitting that the last word goes to Henry in describing what he does best.

"We came here looking for a victory so I am delighted. I've done it before in training and sometimes they just come off."