The Republic of Ireland's hopes of reaching the World Cup finals were dashed in a dramatic penalty shoot-out against the Czech Republic in Prague. Substitute Jan Kliment scored the decisive spot-kick at the Fortuna Arena after Finn Azaz and Alan Browne saw their efforts saved by goalkeeper Matej Kovar.
Ireland had taken a stunning 2-0 lead within the first 23 minutes, with Troy Parrott converting a 19th-minute penalty before Kovar's unfortunate own goal doubled the advantage. However, the hosts pulled one back through a Patrik Schick penalty after a needless foul by Ryan Manning.
Ladislav Krejci headed the equaliser with four minutes of normal time remaining to force extra time. Despite a heroic performance from Heimir Hallgrimsson's side, the Czechs edged the shoot-out 4-3 to book a play-off final against Denmark.
Ireland had come agonisingly close to a first World Cup appearance since 2002, but their dreams ended in heartbreak as Kovar redeemed himself with two crucial saves. The visitors also saw Jayson Molumby hit the post in the second half and had a late header from Parrott saved.
Worrying scenes unfolded in extra time when Sammie Szmodics collided with a Czech substitute and was carried off on a stretcher. However, the night belonged to the Czech Republic, who will now face Denmark with a place at the 2026 World Cup in North America at stake.
