Facing France captain Kylian Mbappe is the ‘ultimate test’ admits Ireland’s Andrew Omobamidele
- Seb Sternik
- 23 March 2023
Ireland and Norwich City defender Andrew Omobamidele believes taking on Kylian Mbappe is the ‘ultimate test’ ahead of Monday’s Euro qualifier with France.
Stephen Kenny's side kick off their qualifying campaign against the 2022 World Cup finalists in Dublin.
With Didier Deschamps' side boasting the likes of Mbappe, Olivier Giroud and Antoine Griezmann, Ireland's defence is certainly going to be tested.
Omobamidele, who is set to feature after returning from injury, revealed he is 'excited' to test himself against the very best in the business.
He told the Irish Independent: "It's the ultimate test, really, to see where you are as a player and as a team, because obviously we know France are a good nation. So it will be a good test for us. I'd be happy. I'd embrace it."
Ireland last qualified for the European Championships in 2016 when the tournament was held in France.
However, with their qualifying group for the 2024 tournament consisting of Les Bleus, Netherlands, Greece and Gibraltar, the chances of making the top two are slim.
Nevertheless, Omobamidele is keeping his focus on Monday's clash with France and their star man Mbappe.
He said: "After the game you are walking off knowing where you are as a player, because that is the ultimate test for any defender in the world.
"I think everyone agrees that he [Mbappe] is a good player, he is quick, and I'd like to think I'm quick too.
"When the draw came out, obviously when we saw the teams in there, I was more excited than anything.
"It's perfect to test yourself personally and as a team against these top nations. I am more just excited to see how it's going to go.
"We know they are a top country, back-to-back World Cup finals, but the games against Portugal and Serbia, these top teams, they can give us confidence going into the game."
