France have maintained a positive start since losing the 2022 World Cup final against Argentina in Qatar.
This becomes Ireland’s third defeat in four qualifiers as their hope of qualifying for the tournament become slimmer.
The Republic of Ireland failed even to garner 20 percent possession as France ran out comfortable winners at Parc des Princes through goals from Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni and substitute Marcus Thuram.
The Real Madrid midfielder opened the goal account with a 19th-minute stunner before the break, and Thuram, who has been in great form for Inter Milan, ensured a home victory early in the second half.
Now that the French have made it five wins from five, they hope to continue winning when they travel to Signal Iduna Park to play Germany in an international friendly this weekend.
After losing three out of four games, the Republic of Ireland are fourth in the group.
Stephen Kenny’s side’s chances of qualifying from Group B for next summer’s finals in Germany look over.
But they still have a chance, provided they regroup quickly to revive their campaign at home to the Netherlands on Sunday.
France had won the first leg 1-0 in Dublin in March, with Benjamin Pavard scoring the only goal of the encounter.
Didier Deschamps’ men see out a 1-0 win despite being under intense pressure by a spirited Republic team, all thanks to French goalkeeper Mike Maignan, who was in inspired form.
But it was a different story in the French capital on Thursday night. France sealed the game with Thuram’s goal. This took the sting out of the game and paved the way for a largely comfortable second half for Les Bleus.
The Republic of Ireland now needs a minor miracle if they are to qualify for a tournament and make it to Germany in 2024.
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