The Republic of Ireland breezed into the knockout stages with a 3-0 win over Saudi Arabia in Yokohama today.

The Irish knew they had to win by two goals to be certain of qualifying and second half goals from Gary Breen and Damian Duff settled it after Robbie Keane had given them the perfect start.

The result means Ireland finish second in the group behind Germany and are almost certain to meet Spain in the second round on Sunday.

Keane's volley after just seven minutes calmed any Irish nerves and set them on their way to join the elite in world football.

Ireland's spirits were further lifted as news filtered through from Shizuoka that Germany were beating Cameroon, which left the Irish needing only a win against the Saudis to progress.

Ireland visibly relaxed and began to enjoy the moment, carving out a series of chances in the latter stages.

In the end they were more than happy to settle for three and made history in the process becoming the first Irish team to score more than once in a World Cup finals match.

Their thrilling win sent millions of fans around the world into ecstasy. In Ireland the nation almost ground to a halt as millions took the longest extended lunch break in history to cheer on the national team and join in the post-match celebrations.