Czech Republic
Republic of Ireland
Turn off the spoiler to see match stats
0.00
Expected Goals (xG)
0.00
Passing by
429 (79%)
Accurate passes
263 (67%)
Turn off the spoiler to see the events of the match
G
Matej Kovar
23′
d
Ladislav Krejci (C)
86′
d
Robin Hranac
90+1′ Stumbled
3
d
Tomáš Holeš
6.2
17
M
David Jurasek
6.9
8
M
Vladimir Darida
6.3
14
M
Lukáš Provod
6.6
5
M
Vladimir Koufal
6.6
15
F
Pavel Šulc
6.7
19
F
Thomas sick
6.6
F
Patrik Schick
27′
1
G
Kevin Kelleher
6.0
4
d
Dara O’Shea
7.9
22
d
Nathan Collins (C)
7.5
5
d
Jake O’Brien
6.7
M
Ryan Manning
25′ HoldingM
jack taylor
21′ Stumbled
6
M
Jayson Molumby
7.2
2
M
James Coleman
6.6
8
F
Finn That is
6.9
20
F
Askozie Ogbene
6.3
trainer
Heimir Hallgrímsson
World Cup – Classification Europe – Group L
Qualification/Relegation
- Promotion – World Cup
- Promotion – World Cup (Promotion: )
The Czech Republic scored a dramatic victory in the World Cup qualifying playoffs, beating rep. of Ireland 2-2 after extra time before prevailing 4-3 in a tense penalty shoot-out at the Fortuna Arena.
The thrilling tie on March 26, 2026, saw a resilient Czech Republic team fight back from a two-goal deficit. This crucial result boosts them even further in their World Cup campaign, while Ireland’s journey concludes despite a spirited performance.
Going into the game, both teams were looking to consolidate their positions in a competitive qualifying group. The Czech Republic finished second in their group with 16 points, showing good form. The Republic of Ireland, also second in their respective group with 10 points, brought a recent winning streak into this crucial clash.
The Republic of Ireland started brightly, taking an early lead in the 19th minute. Troy Parrott confidently converted a penalty, sending the visiting fans into raptures. The Czech defense looked shaky under the early pressure.
The momentum swung further in Ireland’s favor just four minutes later. A defensive mix-up led to an own goal by Czech goalkeeper Martin Kovar in the 23rd minute, doubling Ireland’s lead. This put the local team in a precarious position.
However, the Czech Republic quickly responded with a penalty of their own in the 27th minute. Patrik Schick stepped forward and calmly slotted the ball home, reducing the deficit and injecting hope back into the home crowd. Irish players Jason Taylor and Ryan Manning were shown yellow cards during this frantic period.
At the break, the Czech Republic needed to regroup and find inspiration to break down a resolute Irish defence. Meanwhile, the Republic of Ireland have tried to keep their lead narrow and stifle the home side’s attacking threats.
In the second half, the Czech Republic pushed more decisively for the tie. Head coach Jaroslav Šilhavý made tactical changes, bringing in fresh legs to inject pace and creativity into the midfield.
Persistence paid off in the 86th minute when Ladislav Krejci found the crucial equaliser. Michal Sadílek made a precise assist, which allowed Krejci to guide the ball past the Irish goalkeeper. The goal ignited a fervent atmosphere at the Fortuna Arena, creating a thrilling finish.
With the score deadlocked at 2-2 in the 90th minute, the game went into overtime, then a penalty shootout to determine who would advance. The Czech Republic had more possession with 58%, recording 12 shots, three on target. Ireland managed 10 shots, also with three on target, showing an efficient attack.
The shooting became a test of nerves. Both Krejci and Parrott scored on their first pitches. Tomáš Souček and Adam Idah also converted. However, Czech Martin Chytil missed, giving Ireland the lead. Robbie Brady put Ireland ahead.
Patrik Schick then scored for the Czech Republic, but Finn Azaz missed for Ireland. Jiří Kliment converted for the hosts. When Alan Browne missed Ireland’s final kick, the Czech Republic won 4-3 on penalties. Ladislav Krejci earned a game-high 9.3 for his pivotal role, including five crucial tackles and the tying goal.
This hard-fought victory sees the Czech Republic progress into World Cup qualification, a huge boost to their hopes. The Irishman, despite a commendable effort and a strong start, will be left to reflect on what could have been.
