Everton defender Seamus Coleman played his part as the Republic of Ireland produced a heroic display against Hungary.
Seamus Coleman may not be playing regularly for Everton, but this international break has provided him with moments to last a lifetime.
Roberto Martinez hailed Coleman just days ago, but then saw his Portugal side lose to Coleman’s Ireland.
The stage was set for Sunday, as Ireland needed to beat Hungary away from home to advance into the qualifying play-offs.
Ireland looked doomed at 2-1 down with 15 minutes to play, but Everton target Troy Parrott popped up with two late goals to spark wild scenes.
Hungary v Republic of Ireland - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images
Caoimhin Kelleher on Everton’s Seamus Coleman
Veteran Coleman started against Hungary, but he was substituted for Festy Ebosele on the hour mark.
Coleman was able to celebrate from the bench as Parrott’s late goal completed a stunning late comeback.
Speaking before the game, Bournemouth goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher praised Coleman while speaking to RTE.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
Kelleher hailed Coleman’s leadership as well as his ability to focus on his own performance levels while guiding his teammates.
Kelleher added that Coleman is an ‘inspiration’ who drives the standards in the Ireland squad, hailing him for being so ‘selfless’.
“I think it’s pretty clear to see his leadership on the pitch,” said Kelleher. “He’s one that has the ability to tell others where to go and what to do, and also focus on his own performance. Pretty good as well.
“I think he’s a selfless player. He wants everyone else to do well. He gives 110 percent, he drives the standards in the team, he’s an inspiration. A lot of us in the squad look to him, he’s a lad who’s been there and done it, he’s played in so many important games already for his country. So we’ll definitely lean on his experience today,” he added.
Seamus Coleman earns one last World Cup opportunity
Coleman has played in a major tournament for Ireland in the past, featuring at Euro 2016 in France.
The Everton right-back may have thought that his hopes of playing in a World Cup were over as Ireland needed a miracle just a week ago.
Two fantastic victories have now given Coleman hope of playing in the United States next summer and finally playing in a World Cup.
Coleman turned 37 in October, so this was almost certainly his last chance to tick off that particular milestone.
Ireland are not there yet, but Coleman will be desperate to help his side get over the line after a dramatic few days.