Republic of Ireland Under-16s Off to a Strong Start in UEFA Development Tournament
The team prior to the game against Latvia Credit: FAI
The Irish U16s have enjoyed a successful 2022/23 season, including a Victory Shield triumph in October. Heading into their final set of games for the campaign, Osam granted first Ireland starts to Oisin Cooney, Harry McGlinchey, Matteo Egan, Alfie Lynskey, and Martin.
Ireland took the lead in the second minute, with Umeh scoring his first U16 goal. The Cork City striker headed home a perfect cross from Galway United's Kyle Fitzgerald. Three minutes later, Martin added another with a header, doubling Ireland's lead.
Latvia managed to pull one back in a hectic first half, but Ireland responded quickly. In the 16th minute, Richard Vodo restored the two-goal advantage with his second international goal of the season. The Shamrock Rovers midfielder played a one-two before slotting home the finish.
Martin secured his brace shortly after half-time, heading home another goal to give Ireland a 4-1 lead. Umeh broke down the right wing and panicked the Latvian defense, with the ball eventually falling to Vodo. Martin finished off Vodo's cross from close range.
Although Latvia managed a consolation goal in the final minute, Ireland's performance will boost their confidence ahead of their next match against Ukraine on Friday morning.
Ireland's remaining UEFA Development Tournament fixtures are as follows (all times are Irish time):
- Friday, May 12: Ireland vs. Ukraine, MOL Academy, Dunajská Streda, Slovakia, KO 11am
- Monday, May 15: Slovakia vs. Ireland, NTC Senec, Slovakia, KO 10am
