Ivanovic proud of Serbia

Serbia won the game 1-0 thanks to a goal from Roma defender Aleksandar Kolarov and Ivanovic said that he was proud of how his side stood up to the challenge of Martin O'Neil's side.

Speaking after the game, the 33-year-old said: "I know how Premier League football works, but this was the toughest I have ever played against.

"It was a duel all around the pitch, definitely the toughest game we have played so far in the group. I am very proud we showed the courage to come out with the three points.

"We are naturally physical and we have our talents and some of those don't compare with the Irish players and the way they play, especially in the way they attack, but we accept this as natural.

"Both Shane Long and Jon Walters were a nightmare, an absolute handful to mark. I had to stay completely focused on both of them at all times."

The win leaves Serbia just a victory away from qualification, with games against Austria and Georgia coming up next month.