Matt Holland says that likely opponents Spain would hold no fears for his Irish side if they meet them in Suwon on Sunday. He has a similar message for England regarding Denmark.

The Town skipper says on his own website: "Both are exceptionally good sides but we should not fear them. Remember the Republic were not supposed to compete with Portugal and Holland in the qualifying stages, but we did.

"Then we were the 'strugglers' in Group E, particularly after Roy Keane left, but we got through.

"So Spain will be afforded the respect we give all opponents, but nothing more. Teams are starting to learn that we are an awkward proposition."

Holland says the Republic are in good form and that it is important that they have one or two players who have already got their names on the score sheet.

The Town captain also says he is surprised at Argentina's exit from the tournament: "I must confess they were my one of favourite sides before the tournament but they have failed to translate their phenomenal potential into performances.

"To be honest I think the defeat to England knocked the stuffing out of them a bit. That was their crunch match and they lost it."

The Irish side flew to Seoul today to prepare for the Suwon game (KO 12.30, Sunday).

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