Republic of Ireland 0-1 Switzerland: Xherdan Shaqiri scores as Switzerland beat Republic of Ireland

The Republic had a good chance to level when O’Shea headed back across goal and defensive partner Andrew Omobamidele headed straight into the gloves of Yvon Mvogo.

Evan Ferguson, without a goal for club or country in four months, had a chance to head home from a corner but Omobamidele, also challenging for the ball, collided with his team-mate at the moment of contact and the chance faded away.

Despite the increased Irish pressure, Switzerland almost doubled their lead when a clearance from Bazunu – starting in place of Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher – fell short to Xhaka, and the Bayern Leverkusen midfielder let fly from 40 yards only to see his effort bounce back off the post.

Mikey Johnston headed wide shortly before the break when he got on the end of Jason Knight’s back-post cross and Josh Cullen then fired wide from Ferguson’s lay-off in a strong end to the first half.

While the first half was relatively entertaining, the second was anything but as substitutions broke up any flow and momentum, and chances were at a premium.

Michel Aebischer fired straight at Bazunu from range after the restart and substitute Adam Idah tried a speculative overhead kick, which sailed harmlessly wide.

Celtic striker Idah blazed over from 25 yards with eight minutes to play and although the hosts pressed for an equaliser, it failed to come and Switzerland left Dublin with victory.

Switzerland will face hosts Germany, Scotland, who lost 1-0 to Northern Ireland on Tuesday, and Hungary in Group A at the Euro 2024 finals.