Kerryman in Prague Diarmuid O'Carroll finds it ironic that new Czech manager Miroslav Koubek has been disrespectful to Ireland given his trademark style. Pavel Nedved has entrusted the 74-year-old stalwart as the wildcard choice to lead the Czechs into the World Cup playoff semi-final on March 16. His description of Ireland as "simple" and "typical Islanders" has raised the heat ahead of the showdown. “Because Czechia have players across top level Bundesliga clubs, Italy, Lyon and the English Premier League, they’ll fancy themselves to be at a slightly higher level than Ireland. “The expectation here is that they’ll win the tie but I feel it will be closer than they think.

Source: Irish Examiner February 19, 2026 09:00 UTC