Euro 2016: Griezmann is French toast

France forward Antoine Griezmann celebrates his goal in the pre-quarter-final match against Republic of Ireland in Lyon on Sunday. (Photo: AFP)

Antoine Griezmann scored twice in four minutes as Euro 2016 hosts France came from behind to claim a 2-1 win over 10-man Republic of Ireland on Sunday.

The goal hero said tough half-time words were exchanged at half-time to lay on the last 16 victory that means France face England or Iceland in the Stade de France quarter-final next Sunday.

Paul Pogba brought Shane Long down within seconds of kickoff and Robbie Brady converted the penalty to put the Irish ahead with just two minutes gone.

It was the fastest goal at a Euro finals since Russia's Dimitri Kirichenko scored after 67 seconds against Greece in 2004.

But Griezmann underlined a superb performance as the main strike threat with two knockout goals in the second-half as the hosts floored the Irish.

France drew level when Griezmann rose highest to meet Sagna’s pin-point cross on 58 minutes.

Randolph got a glove on the bullet header, but it was destined only for the back of the net.

Griezmann struck again in the 61st minute when Giroud headed down into the Atletico Madrid winger’s path to slam his shot past Randolph.

It was “annoying” to go behind Griezmann said. “In the dressing rooms, we had words and that brought out a different French team.”

Ireland’s problems were compounded by playing the last 25 minutes with 10 men. Centre-back Shane Duffy was sent off on 66 minutes for bringing down Griezmann, who was through on goal.