A goal, an assist, and the Man-of-the-Match award ... not a bad evening for Rotherham United's Chiedozie Ogbene with the Republic of Ireland

ROTHERHAM United's Chiedozie Ogbene was a star on the international stage tonight as he helped the Republic of Ireland hold the world's top-ranked team, Belgium.
Chieo Ogbene's stunning goal. Picture: @FAIrelandChieo Ogbene's stunning goal. Picture: @FAIreland
Chieo Ogbene's stunning goal. Picture: @FAIreland

The Millers wing-back scored a wonder-goal in the first half at a packed Aviva Stadium in Dublin, set up the Irish's second equaliser in a a 2-2 friendly draw and won the Republic's Man-of-the-Match award.

Ogbene's big moment came in 35th minute when he controlled the ball and then sent a spectacular overhead kick past Belgian goalkeeper Simon Mignolet to make the score 1-1.

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Then, with time running out and his side trailing 2-1, he swung over a cross for Alan Brown to head the leveller.

The 24-year-old has hit the target three times in his six appearances for his national team and has already become a huge favourite of the Irish fans.

Republic manager Stephen Kenny said: "He has a great appreciation of what it means to be playing internationally. It hasn't come too soon for him.

"He has the work ethic and desire to improve. He's constantly getting better and we're delighted with him."

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Ogbene's next appearance for the Irish, who stretched their unbeaten record to seven matches, could come in next Tuesday's home game against Lithuania.

He will then report back for Rotherham training on Thursday to prepare for the Papa John's Final at Wembley the following Sunday.