JAMES Golding made his first start for the Republic of Ireland Under 19s in their 1-0 defeat to Iceland.

The Oxford United centre back played 90 minutes in the scorching heat of Pinatar, Spain.

It was the 17-year-old’s full debut, having got his first taste of international action at Under 19 level in Wednesday’s friendly against the same opponents.

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The defender came off the bench in the 77th minute as Ireland won that game 3-0, so the spoils were shared in the double-header.

Golding could be in line for a call-up to one of the team’s summer training camps ahead of their return to competitive action this September.

Elsewhere, Oisin Smyth was a second-half substitute as Northern Ireland Under 21s endured a tough afternoon against Spain.

The U’s midfielder came on 14 minutes after the break with the visitors 2-0 up, but he could not turn the tide.

Spain eventually ran out 6-0 winners in their Euro 2023 qualifier.

Smyth played in midfield, even though he was named as a defender in the squad.

The 22-year-old will hope to play a part in Northern Ireland’s final Euro qualifier in Lithuania tomorrow night.

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Meanwhile, Ben Davis helped Thailand Under 23s go top of Group C at the Asian Cup with a 3-0 win over Malaysia.

The United midfielder started behind the striker in a 4-4-1-1 formation and was withdrawn before full-time.

Thailand are above their next opponents South Korea on goal difference going into the final round of group matches on Wednesday.

Davis has started regularly for his country’s Under 23 side since joining United.