The Republic of Ireland will not rid their 24-year World Cup absence in 2026 after blowing a two-goal lead over the Czech Republic before their heartbreak was completed on penalties. First in the 19th minute, Nathan Collins won a penalty after the Irish captain and Vladimir Darida went for the same ball in the box. The 24-year-old skipper hoped he had helped his team towards their first World Cup since 2002 under Mick McCarthy. Krejci had used his pre-match press conference to insist the Czechs would be at the 2026 World Cup. Kliment stepped up immediately afterwards, scored confidently, and with that, there will be no Irish presence at this summer’s World Cup.

Source: Metro March 27, 2026 15:03 UTC