Ireland to face Czech Republic in World Cup Play-offs

Republic of Ireland will take on Czech Republic in the FIFA World Cup play-off semi-finals, with Denmark or North Macedonia awaiting in the final, which would be in Dublin if the Boys in Green progress.

The play-off semi-finals draw saw Ireland pitted in the fourth path against the Czechs away from home.

For Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side, the joy of the last few days – and the famous wins over Portugal and Hungary – now gives way to the focus of a trip to Prague.

There is a potential for a World Cup play-off final rematch with the Danes after they defeated Ireland 5-1 in 2017.

The clash with Czech Republic will be on Thursday, 26 March at 7.45pm Irish time, with the final the following Tuesday for the winners of each tie, also with a 7.45pm kick-off.

The Czechs are ranked 44th in the world. Given Ireland could have played two other higher-ranked nations, the draw has been somewhat favourable, particularly when a home final is factored in.

Tickets for the game will be limited for Irish fans. Czech Republic play at the the Letna Stadium, with a capacity of just under 18,000. UEFA guidelines could mean visiting fans receive around 1,000 tickets.

Northern Ireland, who qualified through the Nations League, have been handed the difficult task of travelling to Italy for their play-off semi-final.

The stakes are high for the Azzurri, who have failed to qualify for the last two World Cups.

Wales will face Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Should Wales win, they will face either Italy or Northern Ireland for a place at the finals in North America next summer.

Thursday, 26 March 2026

Play-off semi-final:

19:45 Czech Republic v Republic of Ireland

Tuesday, 31 March 2026

Play-off final:

19:45 Czech Republic/Republic of Ireland v Denmark/North Macedonia

European Play-off Draw in full: