Marco Tardelli insists Ireland are not resigned to being Group C's 'Cinderella', claiming they can still qualify for the quarter-finals.
Ireland determined to upset the odds
Marco Tardelli insists Republic of Ireland are not resigned to being Group C's "Cinderella", claiming they can still qualify for the quarter-finals.
The Irish face Spain on Thursday needing to get something out of the game to keep their hopes alive ahead of the final game against Italy on Monday.
But whilst Tardelli admits the mood in the camp was low following the 3-1 defeat to Croatia in their opening game, he says the 'boys in green' are now mentally ready for the challenge of facing the world champions.
Tardelli said: "You might think we are the Cinderella of the group, but no, we are not the Cinderella.
Believe
"The players want to do something very important for the country. We believe.
"We will go out on to the pitch to win the match. In football, there are three results and sometimes, all things are possible."
The defeat against Croatia was especially disappointing for the Irish, as they produced an uncharacteristic, lacklustre defensive display.
But Tardelli says that the squad have now recovered from losing their 15-game unbeaten record and are looking ahead.
Upset
He continued: "We spoke with them. They are professional players and it's normal after a defeat that the players are upset.
"But we need to see the performance and not the defeat because we conceded three goals in a strange way.
"We are ready for the next match. The mood is perfect.
"The players are working very hard, they need to feel well physically and psychologically and I think they are ready now.
"After the upset, the players want to play a good match against Spain."
