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Buffon yellow a boon for Irish
MONTPELLIER: Normally fans don’t celebrate disciplinary cards — even if given to rival players. Such is the race for place in last 16 stage that the Republic of
MONTPELLIER: Normally fans don’t celebrate disciplinary cards — even if given to rival players. Such is the race for place in last 16 stage that the Republic of Ireland fans could be pardoned if they do such a thing.
A late yellow card for Gianluigi Buffon could boost the Republic of Ireland’s last 16 chances at Euro 2016 with the Italy goalkeeper now likely to be rested for the sides’ meeting in Lille next week.
Italy qualified for the knockout phase of the competition on Friday after Inter Milan striker Eder struck in the 88th minute to secure a 1-0 win over Sweden to make it two from two after opening with a 2-0 win over Belgium.
And while the future Chelsea coach hinted at giving several of his substitutes a chance to show their mettle in the final group fixture in Lille, he was left infuriated moments before the final whistle.
As Sweden battled for a late equaliser, Buffon was cautioned for time-wasting at a free-kick. A second yellow card for the Juventus keeper against the Irish in Lille next Wednesday would trigger a one-game suspension for their first game in the next round. Conte could now hand Paris Saint-Germain keeper Salvatore Sirigu his first start in the competition, according to Buffon.
