Moldova continued to struggle when it comes to games against the top teams and it was aptly reflected in the 3-1 loss against the Republic of Ireland.
The major consolation for the minnows would be the goal scored byBugaev in injury time of the first half. This meant that the two teams went into the half-time break level. It was a commendable achievement, but Moldova were unable to keep this position for long after two goals from James McLean in the second half condemned them to yet another defeat.
With just one win in the last two years, Moldova were certainly not expected to get anything from the match apart from a draw. There was a distinct possibility of a draw taking place, as Ireland seemed to become complacent after the early goal from Shane Long. The result means that Moldova continue to struggle in these highly competitive games. The national team are rock bottom of the World Cup qualification group. One of the few moments of joy has come in the form of scoring the solitary goal against Ireland. The first goal of the World Cup qualification gives them a lot of confidence going into the next round of games in November.
Georgia will be the next opponent for Moldova in the World Cup qualification group."We played excellently in the first half. We should have maybe been two or three in front. Then the goal knocked us back for a while.But we came around in the second half. We defended strongly. We created some chances and won the game and it was a big win for us.It's great to win away from home. I thought we played with a bit of panache," said opposition manager Martin O’Neill about winning against Moldova in an away match.