After 120 minutes and a penalty shootout, the Republic of Ireland's World Cup dream came to a crushing end in Prague with "pain" the overriding emotion for manager Heimir Hallgrimsson. From the high of their stunning last-gasp victory over Hungary in November that sent them into the play-offs, the mood was in stark contrast for the Irish as hosts Czech Republic fought back on this occasion to force extra time and then prevail on spot-kicks. It was a night that promised so much as the Republic of Ireland found themselves two goals to the good after 23 minutes thanks to a Troy Parrott penalty and own goal from Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar. "I feel pride in the performance as they gave it their all," a crestfallen Hallgrimsson told reporters. "I feel gratitude to the supporters who showed up and supported the team throughout and even after the loss, but I and I know the players feel only pain."

Source: BBC March 27, 2026 01:42 UTC