Coleman eager to make fresh Irish memories

Seamus Coleman says the Republic of Ireland are capable of writing a famous chapter in Irish footballing history by defeating Italy in their Euro 2016 clash in Lille.

Martin O’Neill’s side must beat the Azzurri if they want to advance into the last 16 of the tournament.

Ireland famously beat Italy 1-0 in their opening game at the 1994 World Cup in the United States, with the Italians going on to lose out to Brazil on penalties in the final.

Coleman was just five when that game was played but the Everton full-back pointed to their victory over world champions Germany last October in qualifying as a reason to believe they can emulate Jack Charlton’s class of ’94.

“We don’t have to look too far back. That night in Dublin, Shane Long’s goal, it was a memorable night for us all,” Coleman said. “We know that when it all clicks for and we stick together for the 90 minutes and we don’t lose concentration that we are capable of beating big teams. I do genuinely believe that there’s a big result left in us in this group.”

While O’Neill is expected to shuffle his pack for the clash with Antonio Conte’s team – who have already secured top spot in Group E regardless of their result against Ireland – Coleman is not expected to be left out.

He insists this team are capable of matching some of the famous Ireland teams of the past. “You look back over the years and you have seen players making names for themselves, making themselves heroes amongst the Irish fans and it’s obviously something that you dream about,” he added.

Ireland are 3.25 to beat Italy in Lille. The Italians are 2.38 while the draw is 3.10.