U17S HAVE BEEN OUT OF THIS WORLD

COLIN O'BRIEN reckons his players have been tested “in every way” so far at the Under-17 World Cup - and that they have passed each one with flying colours.

- BY MARK McCADDEN

Ireland face Canada today (3.15pm) in a last 32 clash, having topped their group with wins over Panama and Uzbekistan, and a draw against Paraguay.

“The games have been tough, they've been physical, they've been hard. We've had to stand up to that,” said former Cork City star O'Brien.

“But at the same time, we try to play our game. We've been tested in every way in the group stage so far.

“They've stood up to the tests and to top the group, it's an incredible achievement for us.”

According to O'Brien, the players have already overcome “some right serious challenges" - from as far back as the qualification campaign when they twice scraped through on their way to the World Cup.