Euro 2016: France beat Ireland, bag quarter-finals spot

ANKARA (AA) - France qualified for the quarter-finals of Euro 2016 by beating Republic of Ireland 2-1 at the Stade de Lyon in the French commune of Decines-Charpieu Sunday.

Republic of Ireland made a flying start when it scored the leading goal in the second minute of the round 16 match.

Ireland midfielder Robbie Brady had converted the penalty kick successfully, 1-0.

However, the host nation of Euro 2016, France, came back in the second half, thanks to consecutive goals scored by Antoine Griezmann in the 58th and 61st minutes, 2-1.

Ireland defender Shane Duffy was sent off in the 66th minute when he tripped Griezmann while entering into the Irish penalty box.

France will now take on England or Iceland in the quarter-finals.