Exclusive | Czechia legend Vladimir Smicer: ‘The Irish play more with their heart, more for the country’The ex-Liverpool man is fearful of Ireland’s strength ahead of this Thursday’s World Cup play-offFormer Liverpool midfielder Vladimir Smicer in relaxed mood in his Prague hotel. Photo: Aidan FitzmauriceAidan Fitzmaurice Today at 19:30When your CV lists you as a player who scored the penalty which won the Champions League for your club in one of the most dramatic finals of all time, you’re afforded a bit of freedom to say and think what you want.

Source: Irish Independent March 23, 2026 16:02 UTC