In what has been described as a ‘fortunate win’ by many, the Irish Soccer Team beat Kazakhstan in Astana last Friday night (7th of September 2012). However, one could argue that every nation is desperate to qualify for the 2014 World Cup tournament and as such, there is no such thing as an ‘easy’ win.
Kazakhstan led by Beranek were the leaders for the first 52 minutes of the game. The first goal came on the 37th minute with Nurdauletov of Kazakhstan scoring the first girl. The second half brought with it many changes from the Irish team. Robbie Keane and Kevin Doyle were Ireland’s goal scorers. Keane hit the target on the 89th minute before Doyle secured the win on the 90th minute giving Ireland a second goal. The final result ended with Ireland getting a 2-1 win over Kazakhstan. Ireland’s coach Trapattoni admitted the Irish team were ‘very lucky’.
This was the first major international since veterans Shay Given and Damien Duff announced their retirement from international soccer only weeks ago.