CARSON, Calif. – Robbie Keane is prepared for “two massive games” when the Republic of Ireland takes on Bosnia and Herzegovina in their upcoming two-leg 2016 UEFA European Championship qualifying playoff series.
The Republic of Ireland faces Bosnia at Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica on Nov. 13, and then at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on Monday, Nov. 16. The winner of the series will earn a ticket to Euro 2016 in France.
Ireland has reached the playoffs in seven of the last 11 major tournaments since 1988. The experience has not led to success, however, as they have only qualified twice.
“Every time that we qualify for a major competition, it’s through the playoffs,” the Irish captain told reporters last week. “We’ve never qualified by finishing first or second in our group. [Playoffs are] certainly something that we’re used to. It’s going to be a difficult game, because there are no easy games in playoffs.”
Ireland and Bosnia and Herzegovina both earned their way to the playoff by finishing third in their respective groups.
Despite the Galaxy’s season ending nearly three weeks ago, Keane has not lost his edge.
“I’ve been training all week to stay fit for the Ireland games that I’m looking forward to,” Keane said.
Bosnia and Herzegovina are led by striker Edin Džeko and playmaker Miralem Pjanić, both of whom play for Italian giant A.S. Roma. Džeko led the team in scoring during qualifying with seven goals to help Bosnia and Herzegovina reach their second consecutive European qualification playoff.
Bosnia has never qualified for a European Championship, but reached their first major tournament when they qualified for the 2014 World Cup.
Irish manager Martin O’Neill’s squad will be without several key players for Friday’s opener as Shane Long (injury), Jonathan Waters (suspension), John O’Shea (suspension), and Shay Given (injury) will miss out on the match. Despite the absences, Keane is confident that Ireland can qualify for their third major tournament in 27 years.
“We’ve got a good chance,” Keane said. “It’s going to be an interesting game.”
