Ireland Draw in Friendly ahead of Bulgaria World Cup Qualifier

Robbie Keane equalized for Ireland against Nigeria in a 1-1 draw. Photo by newsimg.bbc.co.uk

Robbie Keane notched his 39th international goal as Ireland rallied to draw 1-1 with Nigeria in a preparation match for the June 6 World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria.

The captain found the net in the 38th minute after rounding Nigeria goalkeeper Austin Ejide, canceling out Michael Enemaro's strike on the half-hour.

Against the run of play, Femi Olubayo whipped in a cross which Ireland defender Kevin Foley should have cleared but Enemaro was a fraction quicker, sending it past goalkeeper Shay Given.

Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni handed debuts to five players in his starting lineup at Fulham's Craven Cottage ground in west London.

The Italian wanted to look at new players ahead of next Saturday's World Cup qualifier in Bulgaria.

Meanwhile, the West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Dean Kiely has walked out of the Ireland squad because he was overlooked for the Nigeria match.

 

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