World Cup 2018: Republic of Ireland can win in Wales - Martin O'Neill

Two-goal hero Daryl Murphy proved an impressive replacement for injured Jonathan Walters

Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill says his players can clinch the win in Wales which could earn World Cup qualification.

Two Daryl Murphy goals secured Friday's 2-0 win over Moldova in Dublin and set up Monday's huge game in Cardiff.

A win would see the Republic qualifying automatically if Group D leaders Serbia lose at home to Georgia - while victory could also secure a play-off.

"We know what we have to do. We have to win a game in Cardiff," said O'Neill.

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The Republic manager believes a repeat of the display which shocked Italy at Euro 2016 could be enough to see off Chris Coleman's Wales side.

"I just remember that we went to Lille having to win to get into the last 16 and we did it. So let's go for this."

Nottingham Forest striker Murphy's volleyed second-minute goal gave the Republic the perfect start and the 34-year-old's superb header doubled the advantage 17 minutes later.

"We did fine in the first half, got an early goal and followed it up with a great goal," added O'Neill.

"Second half, we probably took our foot off the pedal - but it was all about winning the game and it sets us up nicely for Monday night."

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O'Neill acknowledged that Wales being without Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale "helps" the Republic's chances although the Irish manager also pointed out the continued absence of defender and captain Seamus Coleman for his side.

"Wales have been able to win matches without [Bale], so I think their mindset is still pretty strong. But so is ours."

With James McClean and Robbie Brady both suspended for Friday's game, O'Neill gave a first competitive start to Callum O'Dowda and the Bristol City winger vindicated his selection with an energetic and composed display.

O'Neill acknowledged that he now will have some "interesting" selection issues for Monday's match.

"We have some pretty decent players coming back. James McClean has been fantastic for us in this tournament and Robbie Brady is a very, very good player."

O'Dowda said the Irish players were fully aware that they had to win after Wales' earlier 1-0 victory in Georgia.

"I think you could say the pressure was on us when Wales beat Georgia. We performed and I thought it was great," said the 22-year-old.

Veteran striker Murphy had scored only once in his 29 Irish appearances and was delighted to repay O'Neill's backing.

"He's put a lot of faith in me throughout the years I've been in the squad," said the 34-year-old striker.

"It's such a big game to score two goals and win 2-0. We kept a clean sheet, you can't ask for any more, really.

"You always need an early goal and to start off well in a game of this magnitude."