Ireland U21s outgun Croatia in Zagreb friendly

Croatia U21s 2-3 Republic of Ireland U21s

The Republic of Ireland Under-21s held off a late fightback from Croatia to win in their friendly 3-2 in Zagreb on Friday evening.

Jim Crawford’s side, with new call-ups Conan Noonan and Connor O’Brien named on the bench, made a fast start at the Gradski Stadion in Vrbovec, scoring twice inside the opening quarter-of-an-hour.

Brighton midfielder Andrew Moran put the Boys in Green ahead in the 12th minute and QPR forward Sinclair Armstrong swiftly doubled the lead when he converted Sam Curtis’ cross.

As Ireland continued to press, Croatia keeper Franko Kolic produced a fine save to deny Millwall striker Aidomo Emakhu, while Armstrong saw appeals for a penalty turned down just before half-time.

Ireland further extended their lead in the 52nd minute when Bosun Lawal sent Emakhu through to round the goalkeeper.

Croatia, who have won four of their 2025 European Championship qualification fixtures so far to sit third in table, reduced the deficit just after the hour with a close-range strike from Igor Mantanovic.

A penalty from Matija Frigan in the 73rd minute set up a tense finish, but Crawford’s side saw out the closing stages.

Ireland, who are second in their Euro 2025 qualification group, two points behind leaders Italy, next face England Under-20s, also at the Gradski Stadion, on Tuesday.