Buffon yellow a boon for Irish hopes

Montpellier - A late yellow card for Gianluigi Buffon could boost the Republic of Ireland's last 16 chances at Euro 2016 with the Italy goalkeeper now likely to be rested for the sides' meeting in Lille next week.

Italy qualified for the knockout phase of the competition on Friday after Inter Milan striker Eder struck in the 88th minute to secure a 1-0 win over Sweden to make it two from two after opening with a 2-0 win over Belgium.

Antonio Conte's men finished top of Group E after Belgium's defeat of Ireland.

And while the future Chelsea coach hinted at giving several of his substitutes a chance to show its mettle in the final group fixture in Lille, he was left infuriated moments before the final whistle.

As Sweden battled for a late equaliser, Buffon was cautioned for time-wasting at a free-kick.

A second yellow card for the Juventus keeper against the Irish in Lille next Wednesday would trigger a one-game suspension for its first game in the next round.

Conte could now hand Paris Saint-Germain keeper Salvatore Sirigu his first start in the competition, according to Buffon.

"I got a yellow card although I didn't do anything," said Buffon after the game.

"I'm one booking away from a suspension, so Salvatore could play the next game."

Although a top keeper in his own right, Sirigu has fallen down the pecking order at PSG following the signing of German Kevin Trapp from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer.

The 29-year-old Sirigu also lacks the commanding presence of Buffon, the Italy captain and their key orchestrator when it comes to organising their formidable 'BBC' defence composed of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini.