International friendlies are often tedious, uninspiring affairs, and Tuesday night's clash between Ireland and Hungary at the Aviva Stadium did little to dispel that narrative.
However, in a game where dullness can be an effective strategy, John O'Shea's side managed to carve out a 2-1 victory against a team unbeaten in their last 14 international matches and full of confidence ahead of the European Championship.
Facing a formidable Hungarian team, Ireland's approach was rational, sticking with the three at the back and focusing on frustrating the opposition and minimising risks.
With the current state of Irish football, with legacy issues hampering squad quality and depth, such tactics are not just necessary - they are essential.
O'Shea, aware of the uphill battle his team faces in every match, put together a game plan that revolved around defensive discipline while being selective with when is best to attack, ensuring Ireland stayed in the contest.
The match itself was largely devoid of standout individual performances, yet the collective effort and organisation from Ireland was praiseworthy considering it being a game with nothing at stake.
Hungary, despite their recent excellent form, struggled to break down the Irish defence, with most of their chances coming from shots wide of the goal, outside the box or originating from defensive lapses.
One such lapse was courtesy of Shane Duffy's complacency, which was swiftly addressed by O'Shea with decisive half-time substitutions.
Caoimhin Kelleher, who always looked calm and in control was called into action mainly to deal with efforts from distance, a testament to the defensive setup that kept the visitors at bay for most of the game.
While Hungary did manage to score a goal that O'Shea would be disappointed with, it had a certain element of luck for the Hungarians rather than a breakdown in the Irish defence.
On the attack, Ireland showed glimpses of promise, particularly through Will Smallbone's creative runs and Adam Idah's physical presence up front, Robbie Brady was always positive in his decision making as well without getting any rewards.
It was a great Will Smallbone run into a threatening area, backed up by a top-quality cross that gave us the opener with a good striker's goal from Adam Idah.
Hungary’s short corners were causing unease for Ireland all evening but ironically it was from a short corner that Ireland snatch the winner, coming from a counter attack initiated and finished by Troy Parrott, who showcased great willingness in a move that justifies John O'Shea’s game plan - being comfortable having to defend and strike when the opportunity arises.
One of the key takeaways from the match was John O'Shea's willingness to make big decisions.
At half time, there was no hesitation in substituting the experienced Shane Duffy and Matt Doherty, who both had underperformed.
In their place, bringing on Liam Scales, and particularly the young Jake O'Brien, who sat into the middle of the back three on his debut with a maturity beyond his years, brought more solidity to the side.
This move not only tightened things up defensively but also signalled O'Shea's ruthless edge in pursuit of the win - a quality that could serve him well if he is to become the permanent manager.
John O'Shea's deep understanding of his players, a result of his extensive involvement with Ireland's international teams over the past few years has helped him take to this role with what looks like great confidence and ease.
This victory provides O’Shea with a strong platform to work from going into the Portugal game. A positive result in Aveiro on Tuesday presents a credible case for his candidacy for the managerial role permanently.
His ability to make tough decisions, instil discipline, and snatch a win from a squad that is still in transition showcased his potential against Hungary, the Portugal game will bring a tougher test and greater challenges on the night.
For O'Shea, this match represents an opportunity to solidify his credentials as a manager capable of guiding Ireland through difficult times.
However, a potential rival for the job, who could be waiting in the wings with his own vision for Irish football will be sitting in the opposition dug out - Anthony Barry.
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