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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Republic of Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrimsson has confirmed his contract has been extended to include the Euro 2028 campaign. Hallgrimsson confirmed the news on Thursday in a press conference announcing a 25-man squad for next Thursday’s World Cup play-off away to Czechia. The new contract comes on the back of a period of excellent progress for the team under Hallgrimsson’s leadership.
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Gabriel Martinelli responded to his recent criticism by scoring a hat-trick for Arsenal in their 4-1 comeback win over Portsmouth to reach the FA Cup fourth round. Mikel Arteta’s side were, however, given an early scare by the Championship side as Colby Bishop slammed Pompey in front after just three minutes but his side were only behind for five minutes after an own goal from Andre Dozzell.
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Man City have agreed a deal worth up to £36.3m for Wolves left-back Rayan Ait Nouri. The 23-year-old is now free to discuss personal terms and undergo a medical. City are hopeful of getting Ait Nouri’s medical completed and the deal finalised before Tuesday’s 7pm deadline which will allow him to play in the Club World Cup.
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Chelsea have strengthened their attack by completing the £30m signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich. The club were determined to bring in a new striker this summer and have moved swiftly to secure one of their top targets. Delap, who has signed a six-year deal, chose to join Chelsea after receiving pitches from Everton, Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and Manchester United.
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