Chiedozie Ogbene scored a second-half equaliser as the Republic of Ireland fought back to draw 1-1 with Canada in Montreal, cancelling out a Jake O'Brien own goal in a lively friendly at Saputo Stadium.
Canada, co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup, took the lead in the 23rd minute when Stephen Eustaquio's corner was flicked on and deflected off O'Brien into the net. The Irish defender later made a vital block on Liam Millar as the home side dominated much of the first half, but they could only take a one-goal lead into the break.
“Chiedozie Ogbene scores second-half equaliser after penalty save as Republic of Ireland draw 1-1 with Canada in Montreal.”
Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson had made six changes to the side that beat Qatar at the Aviva Stadium last week, handing first caps to four players. Bohemians captain Dawson Devoy became the first League of Ireland player to earn a senior cap since Jack Byrne in 2020. St Patrick's Athletic midfielder Kian Leavy and Shamrock Rovers winger Adam Brennan came off the bench alongside Portugal-based Joe Hodge, while Jaden Umeh and Corrie Ndaba made their first senior starts.
Ireland started brightly, with Devoy unable to turn home from an angle after being put through, Maxime Crepeau saving. Canada also threatened early, Mark Travers denying Tajon Buchanan. The hosts continued to press after the goal but could not double their advantage.
Against the run of play on the hour mark, Ireland won a penalty when Cyle Larin was penalised for a high boot on substitute Jamie McGrath inside the area. Troy Parrott's well-struck effort was brilliantly saved by Crepeau, but Ogbene reacted quickest to turn home the rebound for his fifth international goal.
Larin could have made amends 10 minutes later but was thwarted by Travers' outstretched boot. Ireland had a late chance when substitute Mason Melia was denied by Crepeau with seven minutes remaining, but the game ended honours even.
Canada now turn their attention to their World Cup opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto on Friday, while the Republic of Ireland's focus shifts to the Nations League in September.