Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill has insisted that his side were "magnificent" during their 1-1 draw with Sweden in their Euro 2016 opener.

O'Neill admitted that he was disappointed to concede an equaliser with less than 20 minutes remaining, but added that he was "thrilled" with his team overall.

"I thought we were magnificent in the game with some really great football," BBC Sport quotes him as saying.

"Of course the goal deflates you and there is disappointment in the dressing room, but I don't think the players should be downhearted with their performance.

"I think they should be absolutely thrilled with the way we played."

Ireland took the lead through Norwich City midfielder Wes Hoolahan in the opening stages, but were made to settle for a point after Ciaran Clark put through his own goal.

Written by
Mark Langshaw