Dion Charles got his name on the scoresheet on the international stage as Northern Ireland finished their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign on a high with an impressive win over table-toppers Denmark.
The Wanderers’ leading scorer was perfectly placed to fire in at the far post following a sweeping team move to secure the three points in the 80th minute at a vibrant Windsor Park.
The goal ensured that Charles would finish the group stage as Northern Ireland’s top scorer with three goals throughout the competition as he took his tally for the season for club and country to 12.
Whites’ defender Eoin Toal also featured as a key part of Michael O’Neill’s side as he helped keep a clean sheet in the 2-0 victory on his third international start as Northern Ireland finish fifth in Group H.
Charles told Northern Ireland’s media channels: “I’m absolutely over the moon. It’s a brilliant achievement for myself and my family.
“I’ve worked hard to get here and this is only the start. The support we get from the fans is incredible win, lose or draw. To send them away with the goal and the performance from everyone is a good feeling.
“The future is looking bright and if we can go toe-to-toe with teams like Denmark then it gives us confidence going forward.”
Elsewhere, Carlos Mendes Gomes made his debut for Guinea-Bissau and played 73 minutes in their 1-0 World Cup qualifying win over Djibouti in Cairo to make it four points from their first two group games.
Meanwhile, Josh Sheehan will be on duty with Wales tonight (Tuesday) when they play their final Euro qualifier against Group D leaders Turkey in Cardiff.
A Wales win combined with dropped points for Croatia against Armenia would take Robert Page’s side to next summer’s finals in Germany.
However, a Croatia victory would leave Wales and Wanderers’ midfielder Sheehan eyeing the play-offs in March.