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O'Neill proud of "magnificent" Ireland
Martin O'Neill paid tribute to the "magnificent" Republic of Ireland players after James McClean's sweet 57th-minute finish earned them a 1-0 win over Wales in Cardiff.
Needing a victory to leapfrog Chris Coleman's side into second spot and secure a World Cup play-off qualification place, the West Brom midfielder's first-time strike proved the difference and gave the visitors a deserved victory.
While there was no great quality on show, the application and determination of the Irish players was superb and O'Neill was glowing about them afterwards.
"So proud," he told Sky Sports. "The players were magnificent playing away from home at a very good Welsh side. To win on their territory was a great result for us.
"That last half hour seemed an eternity. We had to withstand pressure but we knew at some stage we would have to try to win the game and we did it. The goal was worthy of winning any game.
"We are in the play-offs. Whenever the draw is made we will take our chance.
"The impression of our campaign? Absolutely delighted. When the draw was made I thought we had a very difficult group. We have come through, fantastic."
McClean meanwhile was quick to thank the travelliing support for their vocal backing throughout.
"The fans were unbelievable," he said. "A lot of people ruled us out and didn't give us a chance tonight but we went there and showed character.
"I remember it coming across, a great dummy by Harry Arter, I was just thinking keep it down and when it hit the back of the net there is no better feeling in football.
"We will enjoy tonight."
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Image: Getty/Harry Trump.
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