Seamus Coleman labelled ‘key’ to Ireland victory as heroic scenes unfold away from Everton
Seamus Coleman helped oversee an unforgettable 3-2 victory for the Republic of Ireland over Hungary on Sunday to guarantee their place in the World Cup playoffs in March.
The right-back was one of several Everton players who have been called up for international duty over the past week.
However, while players like Pickford have been involved in dead rubber games for England, Coleman’s Ireland faced a massive task if they were to have any chance of getting to the World Cup.
Yet, despite being 2-1 down in a must-win match against Hungary, Ireland managed to turn the game on its head to win 3-2 in added time, with Coleman being hailed for his part in the victory.
Seamus Coleman’s experience key to Republic of Ireland victory
While the captain may not be playing much for the Toffees these days, he continues to be a big presence internationally.
In Ireland’s 2-0 win over Portugal, Coleman was hailed for his defensive display as he was tasked with man-marking Cristiano Ronaldo, something he did to great success.
Now, this form continued on Sunday as he started and played 60 minutes on the Hungary game.
While the full-back wasn’t part of the late win, he did play a crucial part in ensuring the match did not get away from Ireland, with Hungary dominating the first half.
When rating his performance, SportsJoe.ie gave Coleman a 7/10, saying: Showed experience throughout to win fouls and slow down play, but was one of several players who allowed Hungary to come forward too easily down the left for the second goal.
“Quite the feat at his age and lack of club playing time to play two games in quick succession, so was brought off on the hour.”
In comparison, Balls.ie gave him a 6/10 before writing: “The Everton man acted as the organiser for Ireland at the back, something that was key in the first half as Hungary dominated possession.
“He was tenacious at the back, but was replaced with half an hour to go.”
Finally, Irish Examiner also gave Coleman a 6/10, putting: “Used his experience to keep the ball for a period before Troy Parrott’s leveller and gave everything before finally running out of gas nearing the hour mark. He had long departed, but at least the dream of a World Cup remains alive.”
What were Coleman’s stats vs Hungary?
According to Sofascore on 16 November, Coleman had a very solid game against Hungary.
The right-back won two ground duels, blocked two shots and made one recovery.
| Seamus Coleman stats vs Hungary | |
| Minutes | 60 |
| Blocked shots | 2 |
| Ground duels won | 2 |
| Recoveries | 1 |
| Dribbled past | 0 |
| Was foueld | 2 |
While it is unlikely that he will get many minutes for Everton in the near future, David Moyes will be pleased that many of his fringe players, like Coleman, are still playing well.
Hopefully, if the full-back is called up in the coming weeks, he is able to continue this form for the Toffees.
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