Next Wednesday Robbie Keane will draw down the curtain on the greatest international career Ireland has ever seen.
The Republic of Ireland’s record cap-holder and goal-scorer will make his 146th and final appearance for the Boys in Green in a friendly against Oman at the Aviva Stadium after Wednesday announcing his retirement from international football.
After 18 years, five managers (plus two caretakers), three major tournaments and 67 international goals, the 36-year-old has countless memories to choose from, but in his retirement statement he highlighted the greatest moment of his international career.
Of course it is that goal!
The stakes (World Cup elimination), the stage (the bleedin’ World Cup), the opposition (Germany) and the timing (92nd minute) make this an obvious selection as the greatest moment of Keane’s great international career.
The long ball hoisted forwards by Steve Finnan, the most Niall Quinn flick of all time, the dart through the German defence and emphatic finish past Oliver Kahn… magic.
What a goal, what a moment and who does not remember where they were when that ball flew into the net in Ibaraki? Keane will certainly never forget it.
“I have been very fortunate to play at major tournaments for Ireland over the years and I will cherish all of those memories but one in particular stands out – the 2002 World Cup and scoring the late goal in Ibaraki, Japan against Oliver Kahn,” says Keane.
“The atmosphere, the adrenaline and the buzz from the fans that night is something I will always remember.”
You are not the only one Robbie.
On the latest GAA Hour we look back at Mayo-Tipperary and chat to Andy Moran about his incredible, never-ending career. Listen below or subscribe here on iTunes.
