Robbie Brady's 54th-minute strike was not enough to save the Republic of Ireland Under-21s from a 2-1 defeat in their friendly against Denmark at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin.
The Manchester United midfielder opened the scoring for Noel King's men with a superb free-kick, but a pair of goals from Danish captain Mads Albaek gave the visitors victory.
The Republic started well in what is a warm-up match for next Monday's Euro 2013 qualifier against Italy in Sligo, with Rhys Murphy coming close in the sixth minute from a cross by Aidan White.
Republic keeper Ian McLoughlin saved from Albaek late in an uneventful first half but the game sprang to life nine minutes after the restart with Brady's opener after Murphy was fouled just outside the box.
Ireland's lead lasted three minutes before Albaek equalised with another free-kick which deflected off the top of the Republic wall and sailed into the net past a helpless McLoughlin.
The Danes nudged in front in the 74th minute with Albaek hitting Denmark's second from the penalty spot after goalscorer Brady was penalised for pulling down Mikkel Kirkesov in the box.
Conor Clifford lashed a late chance for the Republic over the bar but Denmark were largely in control and should have extended their lead in injury time when Mark Gundelach shot over.
