Caoimhin Kelleher, the Ireland goalkeeper, believes that the Boys in Green’s 0-0 tie with Belgium was a “positive” showing, but he also views it as a “positive” indicator.

The Boys in Green put up an encouraging display in John O’Shea’s debut game as interim manager, though they were unable to take advantage of their opportunities.

Evan Ferguson mishandled a penalty kick halfway through the first half, which led to him wasting the greatest opportunity of the match.

Following the Republic of Ireland’s international friendly match against Belgium at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, goalie Caoimhin Kelleher of the Republic of Ireland. Picture: Sportsfile/Stephen McCarthyFollowing the Republic of Ireland’s international friendly match against Belgium at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, goalie Caoimhin Kelleher of the Republic of Ireland. Picture: Sportsfile/Stephen McCarthy 

In the end, Ireland put forth a strong performance, particularly considering that 2023 was challenging and only included two victories—both against Gibraltar.

After the game, Kelleher, who started ahead of Gavin Bazunu because to his recent success with Liverpool, spoke with Virgin Media and expressed his satisfaction with the performance.

“There are many good things to learn from that,” the Corkman remarked. “We have a solid foundation and a clear slate, and I believe we created a few opportunities.”

During the Republic of Ireland vs. Belgium international friendly at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Koni De Winter of Belgium battles Evan Ferguson of the Irish Republic. Picture: Sportsfile/David FitzgeraldDuring the Republic of Ireland vs. Belgium international friendly at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Koni De Winter of Belgium battles Evan Ferguson of the Irish Republic. Picture: Sportsfile/David Fitzgerald 

We believe we should have had more, but we missed the penalty and are leaving with that impression.

Nevertheless, we’re still content with our positive start with John. I felt that tonight we performed well when we came in.

We made a lot of opportunities after getting off to a great start. To be fair, I felt like we were very in control of the first half. 

Republic of Ireland interim head coach John O’Shea, left, and Belgium manager Domenico Tedesco during the international friendly match between Republic of Ireland and Belgium at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Picture: Sportsfile/Stephen McCarthyRepublic of Ireland interim head coach John O’Shea, left, and Belgium manager Domenico Tedesco during the international friendly match between Republic of Ireland and Belgium at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Picture: Sportsfile/Stephen McCarthy

Kelleher was called into action with a save later in the second half after a close-ranged effort from Thomas Meunier, but was happy to not be too busy on the night.