Manchester City U-18 midfielder Joe Hodge scored an important goal for Ireland Under-19 national team to secure a draw against Norway for the opening match of group B at Euro U-19.
Erik Botheim scored first to give a lead to Norway national team. Despite having hard time in the first half, Ireland national team managed to take the advantage over the game after half time and Hodge scored from distance with only 9 minutes before the stoppage time.
https://twitter.com/RTEsoccer/status/1150804752327778304
Man City academy player talked to Vbetnews after the game. Hodge said that they deserved to win Norway due to their performance in the second half. Despite the hot weather, that was against the players, Joe added that it is good to play in Armenia and the organisation of the tournament is done well.
16-year-old defensive midfielder, who appeared 18 times for Manchester City U-18 last season, believes that every academy player can reach to the starting lineup if they work hard.
When asked if Phil Foden is an example for academy players, Hodge added: "Of course, Foden shows that you can reach success and play for Manchester City if you work hard".
As for Pep Guardiola, Joe said that he haven't met him yet, but he hopes to see him and talk to him this season.
Ireland national team will face France on July 18. For Hodge and co this match will be important and they need a win to have chances for semi-finals.
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Independent.ie/
Manchester City's official website
