Ireland boss Kenny defends players after Holland Euros defeat

Republic of Ireland boss Stephen Kenny defended his players after their Euros defeat to Holland.

The Dutch have qualified for Euro2024 after winning 1-0 thanks to Wout Weghorst's goal. Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen kept a clean sheet.

"The players played very well for some periods," Kenny told RTE Sport.

"I think the Netherlands are a world-class team. They are one of the top teams in Europe, we've played them twice, there was nothing in the game in Dublin and nothing here.

"They had a lot of chances and we relied a lot on last-ditch defending and Gavin Bazunu to play well in goal.

"The Republic of Ireland have never won an away game against a tier one team in history and it's because it's very hard."

Asked if Tuesday's friendly will be his last in charge, Kenny added: "I don't control that.

"It is quite possible, but I don't know. All I can say is that I see the effort, the level of skill and bravery from the players, but it wasn't enough; the Netherlands were better than us."