A German magazine has said the qualification of Ireland for Euro 2016 is "a stroke of fortune" in the aftermath of the Paris terrorist attacks last week.
Alex Raack has written an article for German football magazine 11Freunde about how the Irish fans will light up France next year. The article has been translated by Póg Mo Gol and can be read in full here.
Raack feels that the Irish fans will bring a sense of joy to France and its people that has been missing in the past week. "The Boys in Green can celebrate like no other nation, always peaceful, always sympathetic and emphatic, with an infectious, childlike joy."
He concludes his terrific piece by referencing the joy of Irish kitman Dick Redmond after the game on Monday night in the dressing rooms. Redmond dressed up as Superman to celebrate with the squad after the historic win.
"The world needs Superman, the world needs dancing, and singing. The tournament in France will be different, perhaps more oppressive, and hopefully without incident. But the Irish will be there to support their team in their famous fashion. They’ll bring huge numbers of good-humoured people prepared to experience a piece of joy. For this then, we look forward even if pleasure is difficult at this moment. But as Paris is about life, football is also about life. And the Irish are the best proof."
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
