Keane fears the worst from Ireland’s play-off opponents
REPUBLIC of Ireland striker Robbie Keane is convinced they will draw one of the toughest possible opponents in the World Cup play-offs.
Giovanni Trapattoni’s men ensured their status as one of the eight best runners-up by drawing 1-1 with Italy on Saturday, meaning they face a two-legged tie to qualify for next summer’s finals in South Africa.
But they could be paired with giants such as France and Portugal when the draw is made in a week’s time, and Keane is preparing himself for the worst.
“There are tough teams in there and I am sure we will get one of the toughest teams, there’s no question about that,” said Keane.
“We never get an easy ride, do we? We will see who we get. France, Portugal, Ukraine or whoever, it’s going to be tough. No matter who we get, it is going to be difficult – but we always make it difficult for ourselves.” Ireland were seconds away from defeating Italy when Alberto Gilardino equalised for the world champions, confirming Trapattoni’s belief that his side can hold their own with the best.
“We must not be presumptuous, but with this attitude, we can have confidence about our next opponents,” he said.
“They’re all important, famous teams, but we’ve also now in Europe and the world become a famous team, and we must believe that.”