Ireland Pulls Off Massive Upset Of Italy, Advances To Knockout Stage Of Euro 2016

Ireland did it! The Irish topped a strong Italian side on Wednesday with a late goal and secured a spot in the Euro 2016 Round of 16.

An 85th minute goal from Robbie Brady not only gave the Irish their first win over Italy since the 1994 World Cup, but also sent them through to the next round. The Irish hadn’t advanced past the group stage in a major tournament since the 2002 World Cup.

The Boys In Green opened the competition by blowing a 1-0 lead and a chance at three points against Sweden thanks to a 71st minute own goal. Then they got smoked by Belgium 3-0 before having to face Italy, which had won its first two games.

Brady’s goal came off a header via a perfect cross from Wes Hoolahan and sent the team’s fans into a frenzy:

Yes, Italy rested a lot of regulars, but that didn’t dampen the celebration for the Irish or their fans.

When the final whistle blew at long last, manager Martin O’Neill, his players and the crowd went absolutely bonkers.

Good for Ireland. The country’s soccer fans are notorious for being awesome and they’ve kind of become everyone’s favorite little brother at Euro 2016. Now they get a matchup with the hosts of the tournament next, as a date with France on Sunday in Lyon.