Dublin was the scene of an engaging encounter as the Republic of Ireland and Senegal battled to a 1-1 draw in an international friendly. The match saw Kasey McAteer, the Leicester City midfielder, score his first international goal for Ireland, marking a significant moment in his burgeoning international career.

The match, played at the Aviva Stadium, was the first-ever meeting between the Republic of Ireland and Senegal at this level. Ireland, currently ranked 60th by FIFA, faced a Senegal side that sits much higher at 19th, although the visitors fielded a somewhat experimental team. Only two players who started in Senegal's recent World Cup qualifying victory against Togo were in the lineup against Ireland.

Despite Senegal's higher ranking and initial control of possession, Ireland grew into the game, particularly in the first half. Their efforts were rewarded in the 21st minute when McAteer found the net. A corner wasn't cleared effectively by the Senegalese defense, leading to Ryan Manning crossing the ball into the box. Captain Nathan Collins headed it towards McAteer, whose initial header was brilliantly saved by Senegal's goalkeeper, Yehvann Diouf. However, McAteer reacted quickly, controlling the rebound and firing it home to give Ireland a deserved lead.

The goal sent a surge of energy through the Irish team, who continued to press and move the ball effectively. Senegal, who came into the match with a 20-game unbeaten run, appeared rattled by Ireland's intensity. Antoine Mendy had Senegal's best chance of the first half, but his shot from the edge of the box went high and wide. Meanwhile, Ireland's goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, making his debut after recently signing for Brentford from Liverpool, had a relatively quiet first half.

Ireland started the second half with the same positive momentum. Will Smallbone had a golden opportunity to double Ireland's lead but shot straight at Diouf. Manning attempted to capitalize on the rebound, but his shot was blocked by Mendy.

As the game opened up, Senegal began to find their rhythm and eventually equalized in the 82nd minute. Substitute Ismaila Sarr found the net, ensuring the match ended in a draw.

For Kasey McAteer, this match was particularly significant. Born in England, he qualifies to play for the Republic of Ireland through his maternal grandmother from Offaly and his maternal grandfather from Belfast. He received his first call-up to the Irish squad in August 2024 and debuted against England in a UEFA Nations League match in September 2024. This game against Senegal marked his first start for the national team and was capped off with his first international goal. McAteer's performance earned him the "Player of the Match" award.

Ipswich's Jack Taylor also made his first start for Ireland in the match. Ireland will play Luxembourg away in a friendly on Tuesday.