Jan Kliment fired Czechia to within 90 minutes of the World Cup finals as they broke Republic of Ireland hearts in a dramatic penalty shootout to set up a showdown with Denmark. Ireland saw a 2-0 lead evaporate in Prague and again lead in the shootout but missed kicks from Finn Azaz and Alan Browne mean the long wait for an Irish return to the World Cup finals will continue.
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Ireland face a trip away to the Czech Republic in their World Cup play-off semi-finals following the draw today in Zurich. Should Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side overcome that challenge they will enjoy home advantage against either Denmark or North Macedonia. The Danes defeated Ireland 5-1 in 2017 to book a place at the 2018 World Cup. Elsewhere Northern Ireland will face Italy in their semi-final clash with the winner set to face Wales or Bosnia & Herzegovina.
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Troy Parrott completed a hat-trick with virtually the last kick of the game as the Republic of Ireland came from behind to beat Hungary and reach the World Cup play-offs. Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side needed a win in Budapest to secure a spot in the play-offs. Daniel Lukacs’ fourth-minute header gave Hungary the ideal start, and while Troy Parrott’s penalty brought the Irish level, Barnabas Varga’s stunning strike restored the home side’s lead before the break. In a nail-biting second half, Parrott’s deft finish 10 minutes from time setup a grand stand finale and the Dubliner popped up at the death to poke home a memorable winner.
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