 He was also a member of the FAI XI that defeated England 2–0 at Goodison Park, becoming the first non-UK team to beat England at home.On 16 November 1953, during a 1–1 draw with France, Aherne briefly became involved in controversy.Although only a friendly, the game quickly became heated and at one point, Aherne chased Raymond Kopa down the tunnel after play had been stopped for a foul.