Ireland scored three of their penalties, the Czechs scored four. Ireland gave everything, went two goals ahead in normal time, hit the woodwork twice, drew a world-class save out of the Czech keeper. This football suits the likes of Jake O’Brien, long of throw and tall as The Elysian. It had the twin effect of giving Ireland some breathing room and driving the Czechs up the walls. The game had long since devolved into pinball on legs and Ireland were looking tired, particularly down their right flank.

Source: The Irish Times March 27, 2026 00:43 UTC