The Republic of Ireland almost won against World Champions Italy at Croke Park tonight.
The Irish took the lead twice, first from a great goal by Glenn Whelan from a Liam Lawrence corner only to be pegged back by a goal from Camoranesi from an Andre Pirlo corner.
The Irish matched the Italians throughout the game and it looked like it was heading for a 1-1 draw until Sean St Ledger nodded a free-kick past Buffon in the 87th minute and it looked like Trappatoni’s team were going to beat Italy for a famous victory.
However, Lippi’s men caught Ireland on the break for Gilardino to grab the equaliser on 90 mins to spoil Ireland’s party.
Italy have now qualified for next year’s World Cup while Ireland face the play-offs with a game to spare.