Darren Randolph 7
For all the coolness he shows with the dragbacks, he still gives you the jitters when he has the ball at his feet, especially on such a poor surface. Rescued by Duffy when he came for several crosses. Could only watch as Insigne’s shot flew past him and hit the post.
Seamus Coleman 7
The stand-in captain snatched at the chance to put Ireland ahead after a mix-up in the Italian defence. A calming presence all night. It’s amazing to think he could not make the squad in 2012.
Richard Keogh 7
The senior partner in a defensive partnership that had only played together once, against Costa Rica in Philadelphia in 2014. He never looked under any pressure dealing with either Immobile or Zaza.
Shane Duffy 8
The Derry man earned his fourth cap and was a predictable threat in the opposition’s box from set-pieces. An absolute beast dealing with the few balls Italy threw into the box, but less comfortable on the ground.
Stephen Ward 7
Retained his place and put in another solid defensive display to once again silence those who doubt him. Booked for moaning at the referee when a throw-in went Italy’s way.
Man of the match - Robbie Brady 9
Sensational. He showed the courage and composure that Roy Keane had asked for during the week and is a real leader in the squad. Started the game in a central position and enjoyed the opportunity to create from there. Never shy to get on the ball or run at defenders. Brilliant run behind Bonucci and brave header for the goal. Ireland’s player of the tournament.
James McCarthy 8
It was a major surprise that he kept his place after the first two games but he looked a completely different player. A strong start, shielding the back four with a few hefty challenges and timely interventions, and kept it up after the break.
Jeff Hendrick 8
A strong challenge on Florenzi set the tone. Went close to scoring with a cracking left foot shot that whizzed centimetres past the post. Growing with every game.
James McClean 8
Relished the chance to get stuck in from the start. Tormented the right side of the Italian defence with his pace and forceful runs. Denied a stonewall penalty when shoved over by Bernardeschi.
Daryl Murphy 7
Brought in for his strength and aerial prowess and was denied a first international goal by a fine save from Sirigu. Last seen trying to surgically remove Ogbonna from around his neck. Replaced by Aiden McGeady after 70 minutes.
Shane Long 8
Took an elbow in the face from Bonucci and had several wrestling matches with Ogbonna. Booked for a tussle with Sirigu. Brave to nod the ball away as Ogbonna lunged at his head. Another tireless shift without the reward of a goal.
Subs
Aiden McGeady 5
Picked up the ball in good areas and supplied the pass for Hoolahan to cross for Brady.
Wes Hoolahan 6
Showed terrific mental fortitude to go from zero to hero in seconds, as he fluffed a glorious chance but then picked out Brady for the goal.
Stephen Quinn
Came on late on for Long. Not on long enough to be rated
Talking point
Ireland's complete turnaround from Saturday afternoon. They showed way more confidence, heart, ability on the ball and it brought a richly deserved victory.
Managers
Martin O’Neill surprised everyone with his team selection by making four changes and keeping James McCarthy in midfield in a 4-1-3-2 formation, but he got the response on the field. Engineered a phenomenal turnaround from the low of Saturday’s defeat to Belgium.
Antonio Conte rested some of his starters ahead of their last 16 game against Spain but if anyone thought he would take it easy himself, they were mistaken as he kicked every ball and constantly argued with the referee.
Referee
Speaking of which, Ovidiu Haţegan of Romania awarded some soft free-kick for mere nudges on Italian players, but didn’t punish Bonucci and co for blatant shirt-pulling and holding. He was probably the only one in the stadium who didn’t think Bernadeschi’s shove and nudge on McClean was a penalty.
Crowd watch
The closed roof enhanced the atmosphere with Ireland fans easily outnumbering those from Italy, with pockets of green in the designated Italian sections, reminiscent of Giants Stadium in 1994. Irish fans lustily clapped along to the Italian anthem and belted out a few new tunes and a few retro ones, such as ‘Ooh aah, Paul McGrath’, in tribute to the hero of 94. Audible intake of breath before, and incredible noise after, Brady’s header hit the back of the net.
Where next?
France in Lyon on Sunday. Bring it on. Italy have the small matter of a last 16 clash with Spain to look forward to at the Stade de France?
