World Cup

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World Cup | Qualifiers

Sep 6, 2013 at 7.45pm UK

Rep. Ireland Republic of Ireland
1-2
Sweden

Keane (22')

FT(HT: 1-1)

Elmander (33'), Svensson (57')

Half-Time Report: Republic of Ireland, Sweden level in Dublin

By Callum Mulvihill, Reporter | 06 September 2013

Johan Elmander cancels out Robbie Keane's opener in the World Cup qualifying clash between the Republic of Ireland and Sweden in Dublin.

Republic of Ireland have lost a lead in Dublin to head into the break drawing 1-1 with Sweden in their World Cup qualifying clash.

The hosts started brightly, with Glenn Whelan going close early on with a shot from the edge of the area following some good build-up play involving Robbie Keane.

Ireland managed to break the deadlock in the 22nd minute when Keane drilled the ball in from close close range after seeing his first effort hit the post.

Sweden were close to equalising just a few moments later but Norwich City forward Johan Elmander saw his low shot saved by David Forde.

The home side didn't show any signs of adopting a more conservative approach after taking the lead, meaning that the visitors continued to look dangerous in the final third of the pitch.

Sweden should have been level in the 30th minute when Zlatan Ibrahimovic picked out Sebastian Larsson, who managed to head his effort wide from close range.

However, the scores were level just three minutes later as Elmander rounded off a good move by beating Richard Dunne to head past Forde and ensure that Sweden headed into the break level.