Romania 0 Rep of Ireland 0:Paul Doolin's Republic of Ireland under-19s side has progressed to the European Championship semi-finals with a draw against host nation Romania in Berceni.
A stalemate was enough in the end with Greece beaten 1-0 by the Czech Republic in the group’s other game.
After a 2-1 win over the Greeks in their first game and defeat to the Czechs by the same score, Ireland qualify in second place behind the latter on four points.
They might have sat comfortably on six had Anthony O’Connor’s second half effort not been disallowed, but with goalkeeper off his line the assistant referee was right to rule the defender offside as he poked the loose ball home in front of a Romanian defender.
Doolin's side will take on hot favourites Spain in Friday's semi-final. The Czech Republic will face Serbia after an eventful finish to Group B this evening.
Spain scored two own goals as they were beaten 3-0 by Turkey, but the Serbs progressed after a 1-1 draw with Belgium.
"I would like to congratulate Paul (Doolin) and the players who continue to do our country proud at the Uefa Championship finals," FAI president Paddy McCaul said this evening. "We will all be firmly behind them once again for the semi-final against Spain on Friday."
