International friendly: Republic of Ireland v Latvia match preview
A look ahead to the international friendly fixture at the Aviva Stadium
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Martin O’Neill takes charge of his first game for the Republic of Ireland on Friday night, as his new charges host Latvia at the Aviva Stadium. The former Sunderland manager takes his first steps into international football against a side ranked 117 in the latest Fifa rankings.
Much of the build-up to the game has revolved around O’Neill’s decision to appoint former Republic of Ireland captain Roy Keane as his assistant, and all eyes will be on the dugout as the duo look to arrest the recent slide in form that saw Ireland finish fourth in their World Cup qualifying group.
The Republic have never lost to Latvia, and head into the game as strong favourites to continue that record. Currently managed by former Southampton winger Marian Pahars, Latvia have only won one of the ten fixtures that they have played in 2013.
KICK-OFF: Friday, 7:45pm
PAST MEETINGS…
Republic of Ireland 2 (Aldridge 2) Latvia 1 (Rimkus), European Championship Qualifier, October 1995
Latvia 0 Republic of Ireland 3 (Aldridge 2, Sheridan), European Championship Qualifier, September 1994
STATS…
The Republic of Ireland and Latvia have met four times, with Ireland winning all four games.
Only two of the past six Ireland managers have won their opening fixture – Steve Staunton and Brian Kerr.
Latvia manager Marian Pahars has achieved one win, two draws and two losses from his five matches in charge.
Latvia are the only one of the Baltic states to have qualified for a major tournament, having qualified for Euro 2004.
ODDS…
Republic of Ireland to win: 1.35
Latvia to win: 12.5
Draw: 5.5
TV: Live on Sky Sports 4 at 7.45pm
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments