And the tournament was lit up when Wes Hoolahan smashed home a stunning opening goal after a wonderful dinking cross from Killybegs man Seamus Coleman.
It was the 48th minute when the stunning opening goal came – following a first half when Ireland had four superb chances including a great Hendrick shot crashed off the crossbar.
Unfortunately Ciaran Clark directed the ball into his own net after a cross from Ibrahimovic in the 71st minute.
“I don’t know how we didn’t go in at half-time three goals in front,” said manager Martin O’Neill.
“Wes goal was magnificent after superb play by Seamus Coleman. There is disappointment when we didn’t take three points, there is disappointment in the dressing room.”
He said the supporters in Paris were magnificent “and kept us going when we needed it”.
He added: “The boys are disappointed in the dressing room but they shouldn’t be. They were magnificent today.”