Roy Keane says his Republic of Ireland team deserved to celebrate after their 1-0 victory against Italy last Wednesday, but that they are not complacent as they head into the knockout stages of the tournament.
The players drank beer on the team bus, getting to bed at 5.30 a.m. but the assistant manager rebuffed any criticism. "You can't begrudge a player having a celebration," he said.
"That [on Wednesday] was getting out of the group, it's slightly different to winning your first game," he said, referring to the Republic of Ireland's 1994 World Cup campaign in which he said the team had felt able to "relax and party" after winning their opening game.
He added: "So no, that won't be a problem with this group of players and hopefully this staff."
Ireland secured a place in the knockout stage of the competition thanks to an 85th minute goal by Robbie Brady to beat Italy 1-0.
Ireland now meet France on Sunday for the first time since they were denied a place in the 2010 World Cup after a controversial handball by Thierry Henry.
If they go on to beat the host nation, they will go through to the quarterfinals, to achieve their best ever European Championship result.
"It's a different challenge to Italy but it's always your hope when you're working with players that there's more to come," Keane added.
"But the other night we got the performance we wanted -- our decision--making seemed to be switched on, physically we were strong with good energy levels, even when we got in front of goal we seemed to make the right decisions at the right time, you need all of that on Sunday.
"We have to give ourselves a chance by getting a foothold in the game, like we saw the first few minutes the other night, tackling and being aggressive.
"If it's not [up to that standard], we're in trouble."
Asked about the danger presented by France midfielder and reported Manchester United transfer target Paul Pogba, the Irishman said: "Oh, he's up there with the best of them.
"A really top player. Again, I think we'd like him in our group. From what I've heard he's apparently a really decent kid as well."
"He seems to be a popular lad and has all the attributes to be a top player. I've seen him live a few times and I like what I see."