Keane pessimistic on World Cup chance

12 October 2009 14:02
Tottenham striker Robbie Keane accepts the Republic of Ireland will have to do it the hard way to reach the World Cup. Giovanni Trapattoni's men came within moments of a famous win over Italy at Croke Park on Saturday night, only for a dramatic late goal to snatch away hopes of automatic qualification to South Africa. Now, the Republic face a play-off against the likes of France, Portugal and Russia in what will be a controversial seeded draw. "There are tough teams in there and I am sure we will get one of the toughest teams, there's no question about that," Keane said. "We never get an easy ride, do we? No matter what, it is going to be tough. "We will see who we get. France, Portugal, Ukraine or whoever, it's going to be tough. They all have quality players in their team. "No matter who we get, it is going to be difficult - but we always make it difficult for ourselves."

Source: Eurosport