Coleman Ready For Pluck Of The Irish

Chris Coleman expects Wales to face a resilient Northern Ireland side in their last-16 clash at Euro 2016.

The pair will meet in the second round after the Republic of Ireland pulled off a shock 1-0 victory over Italy to reach the next round of the competition.

Robbie Brady’s late header changed the dynamic of the second-round draw as Turkey, who had been expected to play Group B winners Wales, were eliminated.

Northern Ireland, one of the four best third-placed teams, had been lined up to meet hosts France, but will now play Wales at the Parc des Princes in Paris on Saturday evening.

Wales manager Coleman said: “Northern Ireland are more physical than Turkey. They get the ball forward quicker. That’s where their strength is.

“They are superbly organised and defensively so difficult to break down. They are excellent from set plays.”

Coleman said the players were back in game mode after celebrating the 3-0 victory over Russia on Monday, with the squad enjoying a barbecue with family and friends in Toulouse before heading back to their Brittany base.

The Welsh coach also said the players ended their booze ban by celebrating victory with a couple of beers after the game.

“It was great as we had not had a beer since we had been in camp,” said Coleman. “Some of the senior players came to me in the dressing room as we had one can of beer each in the dressing room.

“They came to me and said, ‘Can we have one beer back at the hotel? Then we will call it a night as we are playing on Saturday.’

“I didn’t have to say ‘don’t be stupid’ or anything. They took care of that. Then it was a great atmosphere at the hotel, all the kids were there. We all needed it.

“The chefs did the food. I don’t trust any of us! I have done a few barbecues myself in my garden, but I am not sure I could give the type of burgers I dish up to our lads.”

The euphoria in the Wales camp after the Russia victory was summed up by Joe Ledley’s post-match victory dance, which followed on from the midfielder’s moves after qualification was secured in Bosnia-Herzegovina last October which went viral.

“I had them in the locker,” laughed Ledley. “Obviously my mates back home know the dance moves and what I’m capable of doing.

“I just needed the occasion and Russia was that. I just wanted to enjoy it. But I’m not sure what I’ve got left!”

Ledley was part of the Celtic side which beat Barcelona in the Champions League in 2012 but he admitted the emotion of Wales’ win over Russia topped that.

“We beat the best team in the world and Celtic Park was frightening,” said Ledley. “I will never forget that night, but to be with your nation, to have come from where we have, to be here and topping the group, means that little bit more to myself.”

 

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