Richard Dunne: 'Republic of Ireland face uphill battle to qualify'

Richard Dunne has said that the Republic of Ireland's loss to Sweden this evening is a "big blow" to their hopes of qualifying for next year's World Cup.

The Scandinavian side came from behind to beat Giovanni Trapattoni's men 2-1 in Dublin.

The defender told Sky Sports News: "It's a big blow to lose. We know we needed four points from the next two games.

"We were flying in the first half but if you gives quality players time and space they will punish you and that's what they did."

Ireland will face Austria on Tuesday.