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O'Neill defends McAuley after own goal eliminates Northern Ireland

The 36-year-old scored the only goal of the game as his side suffered a defeat to their British rivals, but his manager insists he has been "magnificent" in France

Michael O'Neill has lauded veteran defender Gareth McAuley after his own goal resulted in Northern Ireland's exit from Euro 2016.

O'Neill's team were tactically shrewd against Wales at the Parc des Princes in Paris but were undone in the 75th minute when McAuley turned into his own net under pressure from Hal Robson-Kanu following a Gareth Bale cross.

However, O'Neill absolved the 36-year-old of any blame for Northern Ireland's exit, instead praising his role in their rise to prominence on the international stage.