Republic of Ireland vs Bosnia and Herzegovina preview: Martin O'Neill's men just one step from glory

We look ahead to the second play-off tie for Euro 2016 at the Aviva Stadium

Robbie Brady was one Ireland's star players at Euro 2016 (Getty Images)

It’s a big game for…

JOHN O’SHEA: The veteran defender is back in tonight’s squad after missing the first leg due to suspension. Two caps away from being Ireland’s third most represented player (currently on 108), the Sunderland skipper has been on the sidelines for three weeks nursing a hamstring injury. And if overcoming an injury wasn’t a test in itself for the 34 year old, he faces the task of trying to stop Edin Dzeko and the Bosnian attack from scoring, knowing a clean sheet will be enough to send Ireland on their way to consecutive European Championships.

Key Stats…

Ireland are unbeaten at home in eight matches, since losing to Turkey 2-1 in a friendly back in May 2014

Ireland have drawn six of the 13 playoff games they’ve played since 1966.

Bosnia have never won a play-off tie to qualify for a major tournament.

Remember when…

Shane Long scored the only goal of the game when these two countries met for the very first time in May 2012. A late winner ensured a deserved victory for the home side as they prepared for Euro 2012.

Player to watch…

MUHAMED BESIC: The Everton defensive midfielder will have to put friendships aside as he comes face to face with many of his toffees team-mates including Seamus Coleman, James McCarthy and Aiden McGeady. Back from suspension after missing three games for spitting chewing gum at an Andorran opponent, the 23 year old will be hoping to impress Roberto Martinez, after only playing nine minutes of Premier League football this season. Blessed with the ability to read the game and a strong tackler, the midfielder will be a key part of breaking up the play, and starting up attacks for Bosnia.

Past meetings…

Bosnia and Herzegovina 1 (Dzeko), Republic of Ireland 1 (Brady), UEFA European Championship play-off, November 2015

Republic of Ireland 1 (Long), Bosnia and Herzegovina 0, Friendly, May 2012