Ireland vs North Macedonia

Republic of Ireland ended a bruising international window with a goalless draw against North Macedonia in a forgettable friendly at the Aviva Stadium. Just days after their World Cup playoff heartbreak in Prague, Heimir Hallgrimsson's side lacked the cutting edge to lift the spirits of the 39,560 in attendance. Troy Parrott had the ball in the net twice in the first half but was offside on both occasions. The striker came closest legitimately on 52 minutes, rattling the post with a swivelling strike after neat link-up play from Finn Azaz and Séamus Coleman. Substitute Johnny Kenny had the best late chance in the 94th minute after Adam Idah's clever backheel, but his near-post effort was saved by Stole Dimitrievski. Debutants Bosun Lawal and James Abankwah earned first senior caps, offering a glimpse of the future. But Ireland will reflect on a week to forget as attention now turns to the Nations League in the autumn.