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.
Read more
Fifa has been accused of a “monumental betrayal” by fan representatives after it emerged that the cheapest tickets for next summer’s World Cup final will cost more than £3,000. Football Supporters Europe (FSE), which represents fans across the continent, described the prices as “extortionate” and called for an immediate halt to ticket sales
Read more
The Republic of Ireland will face co-hosts Mexico, South Africa and South Korea if they qualify via the play-offs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. England have been drawn against Croatia, Ghana and Panama in Group L for next summer’s World Cup finals in North America. Scotland have been drawn against five-times world champions Brazil and 2022 semi-finalists Morocco, as well as Haiti, in Group C. Wales or Northern Ireland will head to Group B if they emerge victorious in the play-offs, alongside co-hosts Canada, Qatar and Switzerland.
Read more
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.
Read more
Italy have appointed former midfielder Gennaro Gattuso as their manager. The AC Milan legend replaces Luciano Spalletti, who announced his own sacking at a news conference last week. Gattuso, 47, made 73 appearances for Italy and was a member of their 2006 World Cup-winning squad, and will now lead his country into the same tournament 20 years later.
Read more