Czech Republic
Rep. Of Ireland
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0.00
Expected goals (xG)
0.00
Passing
429 (79%)
Accurate passes
263 (67%)
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G
Matej Kovar
23′
D
Ladislav Krejci (C)
86′
D
Robin Hranáč
90+1′ Tripping
3
D
Tomáš Holeš
6.2
17
M
David Jurásek
6.9
8
M
Vladimír Darida
6.3
14
M
Lukáš Provod
6.6
5
M
Vladimir Coufal
6.6
15
F
Pavel Šulc
6.7
19
F
Tomas Sick
6.6
F
Patrik Schick
27′
1
G
Kevin Kelleher
6.0
4
D
Dara O’Shea
7.9
22
D
Nathan Collins (C)
7.5
5
D
Jake O’Brien
6.7
M
Ryan Manning
25′ HoldingM
Jack Taylor
21′ Tripping
6
M
Jayson Molumby
7.2
2
M
James Coleman
6.6
8
F
Finn That is
6.9
20
F
Askozie Ogbene
6.3
Coach
Heimir Hallgrímsson
World Cup – Qualification Europe Standings – Group L
Qualification/Relegation
- Promotion – World Cup
- Promotion – World Cup (Promotion: )
Czech Republic clinched a dramatic World Cup qualification playoff victory, overcoming Rep. Of Ireland 2-2 after extra time before prevailing 4-3 in a tense penalty shootout at Fortuna Arena.
The pulsating qualifier on March 26, 2026, saw a resilient Czech Republic side fight back from a two-goal deficit. This crucial result propels them further in their World Cup campaign, while Ireland’s journey concludes despite a spirited performance.
Entering the match, both teams aimed to solidify their positions in a competitive qualification group. Czech Republic sat second in their group with 16 points, showing strong form. Rep. Of Ireland, also second in their respective group with 10 points, carried a recent winning streak into this pivotal encounter.
Rep. Of Ireland started brightly, seizing an early lead in the 19th minute. Troy Parrott confidently converted a penalty, sending the away fans into raptures. The Czech defence looked shaky under early pressure.
Momentum swung further in Ireland’s favour just four minutes later. A defensive mix-up led to an own goal from Czech goalkeeper Martin Kovar in the 23rd minute, doubling Ireland’s advantage. This put the home side in a precarious position.
However, Czech Republic responded swiftly from their own penalty in the 27th minute. Patrik Schick stepped up and calmly slotted the ball home, reducing the deficit and injecting hope back into the home crowd. Irish players Jason Taylor and Ryan Manning received yellow cards during this frantic period.
At half-time, Czech Republic needed to regroup and find inspiration to break down a resolute Irish defence. Meanwhile, Rep. Of Ireland looked to maintain their narrow lead and stifle the home side’s attacking threats.
The second half saw a more determined Czech Republic push for an equalizer. Head coach Jaroslav Šilhavý made tactical changes, introducing fresh legs to inject pace and creativity into midfield.
The persistence paid off in the 86th minute when Ladislav Krejci found the crucial equalizer. Michal Sadílek delivered a precise assist, allowing Krejci to guide the ball past the Irish goalkeeper. The goal ignited a fervent atmosphere in the Fortuna Arena, setting up a thrilling finale.
With the score locked at 2-2 after 90 minutes, the match moved into extra time, then a penalty shootout to determine who would advance. Czech Republic held more possession with 58%, registering 12 shots, three on target. Ireland managed 10 shots, also with three on target, showcasing an efficient attack.
The shootout became a test of nerves. Both Krejci and Parrott scored their opening spot kicks. Tomáš Souček and Adam Idah also converted. However, Czech Republic’s Martin Chytil missed, giving Ireland an advantage. Robbie Brady put Ireland ahead.
Patrik Schick then scored for Czech Republic, but Finn Azaz missed for Ireland. Jiří Kliment converted for the hosts. When Alan Browne missed Ireland’s final kick, Czech Republic triumphed 4-3 in the shootout. Ladislav Krejci earned the highest match rating of 9.3 for his pivotal role, including five crucial tackles and the equalizing goal.
This hard-fought victory means Czech Republic progresses in the World Cup qualification, a significant boost to their hopes. Rep. Of Ireland, despite a commendable effort and a strong start, will be left to ponder what might have been.
