Ireland Dampen Canada’s Pre-World Cup Momentum with Draw in Montreal

Chiedozie Ogbene’s second-half equaliser earned the Republic of Ireland a 1–1 draw against FIFA World Cup co-hosts Canada in Montreal.

Ogbene reacted quickest to convert the rebound after Troy Parrott’s penalty was saved, ensuring Ireland concluded their campaign with another encouraging performance.

The result means the Boys in Green have suffered only one defeat in their last eight matches, recording five victories during that run, with their sole loss coming via a penalty shoot-out against the Czech Republic.

Canada opened the scoring midway through the first half in unfortunate circumstances for the visitors.

A corner delivery took a deflection off Parrott before eventually finding its way into the Irish net following an unlucky touch from defender Jake O’Brien.

O’Brien responded positively to the setback and later produced a vital defensive intervention to deny Hull City forward Liam Millar as Canada pushed to extend their advantage before the interval.

Ireland were handed a route back into the contest approaching the hour mark when Jamie McGrath was adjudged to have been caught inside the penalty area by a raised boot from Cyle Larin.

Parrott stepped up from the spot but saw his effort from 12 yards saved by Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau.

However, Ipswich winger Ogbene reacted sharply to the loose ball and fired home the rebound to restore parity.

Canada came close to regaining the lead, with Larin going narrowly close, while Crépeau was called into action again to produce another impressive save — this time denying Tottenham youngster Mason Melia from opening his international account on only his second senior appearance.

Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson also used the occasion to introduce fresh faces to the international stage.

Dawson Devoy, Kian Leavy and Adam Brennan all received their first senior caps, becoming the first League of Ireland players to represent the national side since 2020.

Joe Hodge was also handed his international debut as Ireland continued to build for the future while delivering another competitive display ahead of the World Cup period.