In March, 1998, Ireland lost 2-1 to the Czech Republic in a friendly so insignificant neither country televised it. Czech Republic manager Miroslav Koubek is set for his first match in international football management against Ireland in Thursday's World Cup qualifier semi-final in Prague. Photograph: Paolo Bruno/Getty ImagesThe Czech Republic debutant in Thursday’s World Cup qualifier semi-final against Ireland will be considerably older than all the others mentioned. Should Koubek guide the Czechs to the World Cup, he will become the oldest manager in World Cup finals history. At Euro 2004, the Czech Republic lost their semi-final against Greece to the only silver goal scored in an international.

Source: The Irish Times March 24, 2026 20:46 UTC