Evan Ferguson missed an early penalty for the Republic of Ireland as they were held to a goalless draw by Belgium in a friendly at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

With the tie, Belgium—which is currently ranked fourth in the FIFA world—was able to extend their winning streak to 12 games, dating back to the 2022 World Cup.

Despite having more control and having Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne missing due to injury, Ireland had more quality chances, with rookie Sammie Szmodics coming close several times.

Referee Rohit Saggi signalled for a penalty kick when Atletico Madrid midfielder Arthur Vermeeren was found to have handled in the box, giving the host team—headed by acting coach John O’Shea—a fantastic chance to end the scoreless draw.

After a long wait, Ferguson—who hasn’t scored in four months—stepped up. However, he stumbled as he made touch with the ball, and Nottingham Forest’s Matz Sels used his legs to save the penalty in the 28th minute.

Shortly after, Ireland’s Chiedozie Ogbene missed with a right-footed shot, and they came close once more in the last minute of the half when Szmodics missed with a shot.

Leandro Trossard was replaced by Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku by Belgium manager Domenico Tedesco, but the hosts threatened once again when Ferguson headed over.

It took Caoimhin Kelleher of Ireland two tries to collect a Lois Openda snapshot in the 50th minute.

The home team kept up the pressure, but fifteen minutes from time, fellow replacement Dodi Lukebakio burst free down the right and pulled the ball back. Thomas Meunier’s strike had to be stopped by a fine save from Kelleher.

The game ended all square after Doku whistled a right-foot shot just over and Openda’s hopeful calls for a penalty were turned down.

Belgium will continue their preparation for the Euro 2024 championships on Tuesday when they take on England at Wembley.

Tedesco’s team has been drawn into a group that includes Romania, Slovakia, and either Iceland or Ukraine. They will play off against each other the following week in Germany.

Photo by Ireland Twitter page