Xherdan Shaqiri secures Switzerland success over Ireland

The Republic of Ireland were unable to repeat their impressive performance at the weekend as they suffered another defeat, losing to Switzerland at the Aviva Stadium.

John O'Shea’s side were unable to fight back from Xherdan Shaqiri’s first-half strike as the visitors held on for a narrow win in this friendly international.

It brings to end the interim manager’s allotted time in charge of the team, with the FAI set to announce Stephen Kenny’s permanent replacement next month.

But there were positive vibes from at the start of this contest as the home side created three solid attacking moves inside the opening six minutes, with the best of them leading to a free just outside the box after Jason Knight skipped down the right flank.

It signalled their intent, as they played out from the back, but were also happy to pump hopeful balls into space or aimed at the attack.

No chances inside those opening exchanges, however, and it was the Swiss who came closest to threatening in the 10th minute as the ball was sprayed wide to Dan Ndoye on the left, and the Bologna forward set off on a searching run across the edge of the box before striking a low effort goalwards.

Nathan Collins blocked its path to goal, and while Silvan Widmer met it at the back post, his looping header was cleared by Andrew Omobamidele.

That chance instilled confidence in the visitors’ loaded attack and five minutes later, another crossfield ball to the touchline led to the first chance on target as Vincent Sierro tried one from 25 yards; it was easy for Gavin Bazunu, who was right behind it.

In the 17th minute, another good Ireland press led to keeper Yvon Mvogo playing a hurried pass out of his box, which allowed the advanced Omobamidele to work it to Mikey